Power Control Device

ABSTRACT

A controllable light bulb comprises an electrical connector, a receiver module, an electronic switch, a translucent casing, and a light producing element. The electrical connector receives a power signal. The receiver module is powered by the power signal received via the electrical connector and determines control parameters based upon on/off modulation of the power signal. The receiver module generates a control signal based upon the control parameters while the power signal is on. The electronic switch outputs an output power signal and reduces the output power signal based on the control signal. The translucent casing encloses the light producing element. The light producing element receives the output power signal.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This present disclosure is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No.11/964,172, filed on Dec. 26, 2007, which claims priority under 35U.S.C. §119(e) to U.S. Provisional Application Nos. 60/938,550, filedMay 17, 2007, 60/890,337, filed Feb. 16, 2007, 60/882,757, filed Dec.29, 2006. The disclosures of the above applications are incorporatedherein by reference in their entirety.

FIELD

The present disclosure relates to lighting systems, and moreparticularly to controlling lighting systems.

BACKGROUND

The background description provided herein is for the purpose ofgenerally presenting the context of the disclosure. Work of thepresently named inventors, to the extent it is described in thisbackground section, as well as aspects of the description that may nototherwise qualify as prior art at the time of filing, are neitherexpressly nor impliedly admitted as prior art against the presentdisclosure.

Referring now to FIG. 1, a functional block diagram of a lighting systemis depicted. A service panel 102 communicates with a switch 104. Theswitch 104 communicates with a light fixture 106. A light bulb 108communicates with the light fixture 106. The switch 104 selectivelyallows current from the service panel 102 to flow through the light bulb108 via the light fixture 106. In order to turn the light bulb 108 onand off, the switch 104 must be actuated.

To allow remote control of the light bulb 108, the switch 104 can bereplaced with a power line carrier switch. The light bulb 108 can thenbe turned on and off locally as well as remotely, such as by awhole-house lights-off command. Replacing the switch 104, however,involves working with wires that normally carry full line voltage. Manyhomeowners will need to call an electrician to replace the switch 104,which is a costly process. In addition, the new switch's style mustmatch the previous switch 104, or new wall plates will also need to bepurchased and installed.

SUMMARY

A controllable light bulb comprises an electrical connector, a receivermodule, an electronic switch, a translucent casing, and a lightproducing element. The electrical connector receives a power signal. Thereceiver module is powered by the power signal received via theelectrical connector and determines control parameters based upon on/offmodulation of the power signal. The receiver module generates a controlsignal based upon the control parameters while the power signal is on.The electronic switch outputs an output power signal and reduces theoutput power signal based on the control signal. The translucent casingencloses the light producing element. The light producing elementreceives the output power signal.

In other features, the on/off modulation comprises a count over apredetermined period of time of one of power signal presence and powersignal absence. The on/off modulation comprises binary data collected atperiodic sampling intervals, wherein a first binary state corresponds topower signal presence and a second binary state corresponds to powersignal absence. The on/off modulation comprises binary data determinedby periods of one of power signal presence and power signal absence,wherein a first binary state corresponds to periods shorter than apredetermined length and a second binary state corresponds to periodslonger than the predetermined length.

In further features, the receiver module determines the controlparameters after the on/off modulation indicates a programminginitiation sequence. The programming initiation sequence comprises apredetermined on/off sequence performed within a predetermined period oftime. The electronic switch reduces the output power signal toapproximately zero when the control signal is received. The electronicswitch reduces the output power signal to a dimmed value when thecontrol signal is received. The dimmed value is less than the powersignal.

In still other features, the receiver module includes a power linecarrier receiver module that receives data via the power signal, that isassociated with a first address, and that accepts commands addressed toone of the first address and a global address. The control parametersinclude the first address and the receiver module generates the controlsignal based upon the data. The power line carrier receiver moduleperforms an operation based upon the on/off modulation. The operation isat least one of a reset address operation, an update address operation,a broadcast connection operation, and a transmit address operation.

In other features, the receiver module further comprises a timing modulethat begins counting after the power signal is received. The controlparameters include a predetermined value. The receiver module generatesthe control signal when the timing module reaches the predeterminedvalue. The receiver module sets the predetermined value based on aduration that the power signal is on after a programming mode isinitiated. The receiver module decreases the predetermined value whenthe power signal is turned off before the timer module reaches thepredetermined value.

In further features, the receiver module increases the predeterminedvalue when the power signal is turned off then on within a predeterminedperiod after the timer module reaches the predetermined value. Thereceiver module decreases the predetermined value when the power signalis turned off, on, and off within a predetermined period, and before thetimer module reaches the predetermined value. The receiver moduleincreases the predetermined value when the power signal is turned off,on, off, and on within a predetermined period after the timer modulereaches the predetermined value. The electrical connector comprisesconducting male threads and a conducting tip. The light producingelement comprises a metallic filament.

A method comprises receiving a power signal at a light bulb, monitoringon/off modulation of the power signal, determining control parametersbased upon the on/off modulation, generating a control signal based uponthe control parameters while the power signal is on, providing an outputpower signal to a light producing element of the light bulb, andreducing the output power signal based upon the control signal.

In other features, the monitoring comprises counting one of power signalpresence and power signal absence over a predetermined period of time.The monitoring comprises collecting binary data at periodic samplingintervals, wherein a first binary state corresponds to power signalpresence and a second binary state corresponds to power signal absence.The monitoring comprises collecting binary data by measuring periods ofone of power signal presence and power signal absence, wherein a firstbinary state corresponds to periods shorter than a predetermined lengthand a second binary state corresponds to periods longer than thepredetermined length.

In further features, the method further comprises detecting aprogramming initiation sequence from the on/off modulation beforeperforming the determining. The programming initiation sequencecomprises a predetermined on/off sequence detected within apredetermined period of time. The reducing includes reducing the outputpower signal to one of a dimmed value and an off value when the controlsignal is received. The method further comprises receiving datasuperimposed on the power signal; decoding the data into commands;selecting ones of the commands addressed to one of a first address and aglobal address, wherein the control parameters include the firstaddress; and generating the control signal based upon the ones of thecommands.

In still other features, the method further comprises performing a powerline carrier operation based upon the on/off modulation. The operationis at least one of a reset address operation, an update addressoperation, a broadcast connection operation, and a transmit addressoperation. The method further comprises beginning timing a first periodafter the power signal is received. The control parameters include thefirst period. The generating the control signal is performed when thefirst period elapses. The method further comprises setting the firstperiod based on a duration that the power signal is on after aprogramming mode is initiated.

In other features, the method further comprises decreasing the firstperiod when the power signal is turned off before the first periodelapses. The method further comprises increasing the first period whenthe power signal is turned off then on within a predetermined periodafter the first period elapses. The method further comprises decreasingthe first period when the power signal is turned off, on, and off withina predetermined period and before the first period elapses. The methodfurther comprises increasing the first period when the power signal isturned off, on, off, and on within a predetermined period after thereducing has been performed.

A controllable light bulb comprises electrical connection means forreceiving a power signal; receiving means for determining controlparameters based upon on/off modulation of the power signal and forgenerating a control signal based upon the control parameters while thepower signal is on, wherein the receiving means is powered by the powersignal received via the electrical connection means; electronicswitching means for outputting an output power signal and for reducingthe output power signal based upon the control signal; light producingmeans for receiving the output power signal and for producing light; anda translucent casing for enclosing the light producing means.

In other features, the on/off modulation comprises a count over apredetermined period of time of one of power signal presence and powersignal absence. The on/off modulation comprises binary data collected atperiodic sampling intervals, wherein a first binary state corresponds topower signal presence and a second binary state corresponds to powersignal absence. The on/off modulation comprises binary data determinedby periods of one of power signal presence and power signal absence,wherein a first binary state corresponds to periods shorter than apredetermined length and a second binary state corresponds to periodslonger than the predetermined length.

In further features, the receiving means determines the controlparameters after the on/off modulation indicates a programminginitiation sequence. The programming initiation sequence comprises apredetermined on/off sequence performed within a predetermined period oftime. The electronic switching means reduces the output power signal toapproximately zero when the control signal is received. The electronicswitching means reduces the output power signal to a dimmed value whenthe control signal is received. The dimmed value is less than the powersignal.

In still other features, the receiving means includes power line carrierreceiving means for receiving data via the power signal and foraccepting commands addressed to one of a first address and a globaladdress. The control parameters include the first address and thereceiving means generates the control signal based upon the data. Thepower line carrier receiving means performs an operation based upon theon/off modulation.

In other features, the operation is at least one of a reset addressoperation, an update address operation, a broadcast connectionoperation, and a transmit address operation. The receiving means furthercomprises timing means for counting after the power signal is received.The control parameters include a predetermined value. The receivingmeans generates the control signal when the timing means reaches thepredetermined value. The receiving means sets the predetermined valuebased on a duration that the power signal is on after a programming modeis initiated.

In further features, the receiving means decreases the predeterminedvalue when the power signal is turned off before the timer modulereaches the predetermined value. The receiving means increases thepredetermined value when the power signal is turned off then on within apredetermined period after the timer module reaches the predeterminedvalue. The receiving means decreases the predetermined value when thepower signal is turned off, on, and off within a predetermined period,and before the timer module reaches the predetermined value. Thereceiving means increases the predetermined value when the power signalis turned off, on, off, and on within a predetermined period after thetimer module reaches the predetermined value.

A controllable light bulb adapter comprises a first electricalconnector, a receiver module, an electronic switch, and a secondelectrical connector. The first electrical connector receives a powersignal from a light fixture. The receiver module is powered by the powersignal received via the first electrical connector, determines controlparameters based upon on/off modulation of the power signal, andselectively generates a control signal based upon the control parameterswhile the power signal is on. The electronic switch outputs an outputpower signal and reduces the output power signal based on the controlsignal. The second electrical connector receives a light bulb andprovides the output power signal to the light bulb.

In other features, the on/off modulation comprises a count over apredetermined period of time of one of power signal presence and powersignal absence. The on/off modulation comprises binary data collected atperiodic sampling intervals, wherein a first binary state corresponds topower signal presence and a second binary state corresponds to powersignal absence. The on/off modulation comprises binary data determinedby periods of one of power signal presence and power signal absence,wherein a first binary state corresponds to periods shorter than apredetermined length and a second binary state corresponds to periodslonger than the predetermined length.

In further features, the receiver module determines the controlparameters after the on/off modulation indicates a programminginitiation sequence. The programming initiation sequence comprises apredetermined on/off sequence performed within a predetermined period oftime. The electronic switch reduces the output power signal toapproximately zero when the control signal is received. The electronicswitch reduces the output power signal to a dimmed value when thecontrol signal is received. The dimmed value is less than the powersignal.

In still other features, the receiver module includes a power linecarrier receiver module that receives data via the power signal, that isassociated with a first address, and that accepts commands addressed toone of the first address and a global address. The control parametersinclude the first address and the receiver module generates the controlsignal based upon the data. The power line carrier receiver moduleperforms an operation based upon the on/off modulation. The operation isat least one of a reset address operation, an update address operation,a broadcast connection operation, and a transmit address operation.

In other features, the receiver module further comprises a timing modulethat begins counting after the power signal is received. The controlparameters include a predetermined value. The receiver module generatesthe control signal when the timing module reaches the predeterminedvalue. The receiver module sets the predetermined value based on aduration that the power signal is on after a programming mode isinitiated. The receiver module decreases the predetermined value whenthe power signal is turned off before the timer module reaches thepredetermined value.

In further features, the receiver module increases the predeterminedvalue when the power signal is turned off then on within a predeterminedperiod after the timer module reaches the predetermined value. Thereceiver module decreases the predetermined value when the power signalis turned off, on, and off within a predetermined period, and before thetimer module reaches the predetermined value. The receiver moduleincreases the predetermined value when the power signal is turned off,on, off, and on within a predetermined period after the timer modulereaches the predetermined value. The first electrical connectorcomprises conducting male threads and a conducting tip. The secondelectrical connector comprises conducting female threads and aconducting contact.

A method comprises receiving a power signal from a light fixture;monitoring on/off modulation of the power signal; determining controlparameters based upon the on/off modulation; generating a control signalbased upon the control parameters while the power signal is on;providing a switchable power signal to a light bulb; and reducing theswitchable power signal based upon the control signal.

In other features, the monitoring comprises counting one of power signalpresence and power signal absence over a predetermined period of time.The monitoring comprises collecting binary data at periodic samplingintervals, wherein a first binary state corresponds to power signalpresence and a second binary state corresponds to power signal absence.The monitoring comprises collecting binary data by measuring periods ofone of power signal presence and power signal absence, wherein a firstbinary state corresponds to periods shorter than a predetermined lengthand a second binary state corresponds to periods longer than thepredetermined length.

In further features, the method further comprises detecting aprogramming initiation sequence from the on/off modulation beforeperforming the determining. The programming initiation sequencecomprises a predetermined on/off sequence detected within apredetermined period of time. The reducing includes reducing the outputpower signal to one of a dimmed value and an off value when the controlsignal is received.

In still other features, the method further comprises receiving datasuperimposed on the power signal; decoding the data into commands;selecting ones of the commands addressed to one of a first address and aglobal address, wherein the control parameters include the firstaddress; and generating the control signal based upon the ones of thecommands. The method further comprises performing a power line carrieroperation based upon the on/off modulation. The operation is at leastone of a reset address operation, an update address operation, abroadcast connection operation, and a transmit address operation.

In other features, the method further comprises beginning timing a firstperiod after the power signal is received. The control parametersinclude the first period. The generating the control signal is performedwhen the first period elapses. The method further comprises setting thefirst period based on a duration that the power signal is on after aprogramming mode is initiated. The method further comprises decreasingthe first period when the power signal is turned off before the firstperiod elapses.

In further features, the method further comprises increasing the firstperiod when the power signal is turned off then on within apredetermined period after the first period elapses. The method furthercomprises decreasing the first period when the power signal is turnedoff, on, and off within a predetermined period and before the firstperiod elapses. The method further comprises increasing the first periodwhen the switch is turned off, on, off, and on within a predeterminedperiod after the reducing has been performed.

A controllable light bulb adapter comprises first electrical connectionmeans for receiving a power signal; receiving means for determiningcontrol parameters based upon on/off modulation of the power signal andfor generating a control signal based upon the control parameters whilethe power signal is on, wherein the receiving means is powered by thepower signal received via the first electrical connection means;electronic switching means for outputting an output power signal and forreducing the output power signal based upon the control signal; andsecond electrical connection means for receiving a light bulb and forproviding the switchable power signal to the light bulb.

In other features, the on/off modulation comprises a count over apredetermined period of time of one of power signal presence and powersignal absence. The on/off modulation comprises binary data collected atperiodic sampling intervals, wherein a first binary state corresponds topower signal presence and a second binary state corresponds to powersignal absence. The on/off modulation comprises binary data determinedby periods of one of power signal presence and power signal absence,wherein a first binary state corresponds to periods shorter than apredetermined length and a second binary state corresponds to periodslonger than the predetermined length.

In further features, the receiving means determines the controlparameters after the on/off modulation indicates a programminginitiation sequence. The programming initiation sequence comprises apredetermined on/off sequence performed within a predetermined period oftime. The electronic switching means reduces the output power signal toapproximately zero when the control signal is received. The electronicswitching means reduces the output power signal to a dimmed value whenthe control signal is received. The dimmed value is less than the powersignal.

In still other features, the receiving means includes power line carrierreceiving means for receiving data via the power signal and foraccepting commands addressed to one of a first address and a globaladdress. The control parameters include the first address and thereceiving means generates the control signal based upon the data. Thepower line carrier receiving means performs an operation based upon theon/off modulation. The operation is at least one of a reset addressoperation, an update address operation, a broadcast connectionoperation, and a transmit address operation.

In other features, the receiving means further comprises timing meansfor counting after the power signal is received. The control parametersinclude a predetermined value. The receiving means generates the controlsignal when the timing means reaches the predetermined value. Thereceiving means sets the predetermined value based on a duration thatthe power signal is on after a programming mode is initiated. Thereceiving means decreases the predetermined value when the power signalis turned off before the timer module reaches the predetermined value.

In further features, the receiving means increases the predeterminedvalue when the power signal is turned off then on within a predeterminedperiod after the timer module reaches the predetermined value. Thereceiving means decreases the predetermined value when the power signalis turned off, on, and off within a predetermined period, and before thetimer module reaches the predetermined value. The receiving meansincreases the predetermined value when the power signal is turned off,on, off, and on within a predetermined period after the timer modulereaches the predetermined value.

A controllable light fixture comprises a first electrical connector, areceiver module, an electronic switch, and a second electricalconnector. The first electrical connector receives a power signal. Thereceiver module is powered by the power signal received via the firstelectrical connector, determines control parameters based upon on/offmodulation of the power signal, and selectively generates a controlsignal based upon the control parameters while the power signal is on.The electronic switch outputs an output power signal and reduces theoutput power signal based on the control signal. The second electricalconnector receives a light bulb and provides the output power signal tothe light bulb.

In other features, the on/off modulation comprises a count over apredetermined period of time of one of power signal presence and powersignal absence. The on/off modulation comprises binary data collected atperiodic sampling intervals, wherein a first binary state corresponds topower signal presence and a second binary state corresponds to powersignal absence. The on/off modulation comprises binary data determinedby periods of one of power signal presence and power signal absence,wherein a first binary state corresponds to periods shorter than apredetermined length and a second binary state corresponds to periodslonger than the predetermined length.

In further features, the receiver module determines the controlparameters after the on/off modulation indicates a programminginitiation sequence. The programming initiation sequence comprises apredetermined on/off sequence performed within a predetermined period oftime. The electronic switch reduces the output power signal toapproximately zero when the control signal is received. The electronicswitch reduces the output power signal to a dimmed value when thecontrol signal is received. The dimmed value is less than the powersignal.

In still other features, the receiver module includes a power linecarrier receiver module that receives data via the power signal, that isassociated with a first address, and that accepts commands addressed toone of the first address and a global address. The control parametersinclude the first address and the receiver module generates the controlsignal based upon the data. The power line carrier receiver moduleperforms an operation based upon the on/off modulation. The operation isat least one of a reset address operation, an update address operation,a broadcast connection operation, and a transmit address operation.

In other features, the receiver module further comprises a timing modulethat begins counting after the power signal is received. The controlparameters include a predetermined value. The receiver module generatesthe control signal when the timing module reaches the predeterminedvalue. The receiver module sets the predetermined value based on aduration that the power signal is on after a programming mode isinitiated. The receiver module decreases the predetermined value whenthe power signal is turned off before the timer module reaches thepredetermined value.

In further features, the receiver module increases the predeterminedvalue when the power signal is turned off then on within a predeterminedperiod after the timer module reaches the predetermined value. Thereceiver module decreases the predetermined value when the power signalis turned off, on, and off within a predetermined period, and before thetimer module reaches the predetermined value. The receiver moduleincreases the predetermined value when the power signal is turned off,on, off, and on within a predetermined period after the timer modulereaches the predetermined value. The electrical connector comprisesconducting female threads and a conducting contact.

A method comprises receiving a power signal at a light fixture;monitoring on/off modulation of the power signal; determining controlparameters based upon the on/off modulation; generating a control signalbased upon the control parameters while the power signal is on;providing a switchable power signal to a light bulb; and reducing theswitchable power signal based upon the control signal.

In other features, the monitoring comprises counting one of power signalpresence and power signal absence over a predetermined period of time.The monitoring comprises collecting binary data at periodic samplingintervals, wherein a first binary state corresponds to power signalpresence and a second binary state corresponds to power signal absence.The monitoring comprises collecting binary data by measuring periods ofone of power signal presence and power signal absence, wherein a firstbinary state corresponds to periods shorter than a predetermined lengthand a second binary state corresponds to periods longer than thepredetermined length.

In further features, the method further comprises detecting aprogramming initiation sequence from the on/off modulation beforeperforming the determining. The programming initiation sequencecomprises a predetermined on/off sequence detected within apredetermined period of time. The reducing includes reducing the outputpower signal to one of a dimmed value and an off value when the controlsignal is received. The method further comprises receiving datasuperimposed on the power signal; decoding the data into commands;selecting ones of the commands addressed to one of a first address and aglobal address, where the control parameters include the first address;and generating the control signal based upon the ones of the commands.

In still other features, the method further comprises performing a powerline carrier operation based upon the on/off modulation. The operationis at least one of a reset address operation, an update addressoperation, a broadcast connection operation, and a transmit addressoperation. The method further comprises beginning timing a first periodafter the power signal is received. The control parameters include thefirst period. The generating the control signal is performed when thefirst period elapses.

In other features, the method further comprises setting the first periodbased on a duration that the power signal is on after a programming modeis initiated. The method further comprises decreasing the first periodwhen the power signal is turned off before the first period elapses. Themethod further comprises increasing the first period when the powersignal is turned off then on within a predetermined period after thefirst period elapses. The method further comprises decreasing the firstperiod when the power signal is turned off, on, and off within apredetermined period and before the first period elapses. The methodfurther comprises increasing the first period when the power signal isturned off, on, off, and on within a predetermined period after thereducing has been performed.

A controllable light fixture comprises first electrical connection meansfor receiving a power signal; receiving means for determining controlparameters based upon on/off modulation of the power signal and forgenerating a control signal based upon the control parameters while thepower signal is on, wherein the receiving means is powered by the powersignal received via the electrical connection means; electronicswitching means for outputting an output power signal and for reducingthe output power signal based upon the control signal; and secondelectrical connection means for receiving a light bulb and for providingthe output power signal to the light bulb.

In other features, the on/off modulation comprises a count over apredetermined period of time of one of power signal presence and powersignal absence. The on/off modulation comprises binary data collected atperiodic sampling intervals, wherein a first binary state corresponds topower signal presence and a second binary state corresponds to powersignal absence. The on/off modulation comprises binary data determinedby periods of one of power signal presence and power signal absence,wherein a first binary state corresponds to periods shorter than apredetermined length and a second binary state corresponds to periodslonger than the predetermined length.

In further features, the receiving means determines the controlparameters after the on/off modulation indicates a programminginitiation sequence. The programming initiation sequence comprises apredetermined on/off sequence performed within a predetermined period oftime. The electronic switching means reduces the output power signal toapproximately zero when the control signal is received. The electronicswitching means reduces the output power signal to a dimmed value whenthe control signal is received. The dimmed value is less than the powersignal.

In still other features, the receiving means includes power line carrierreceiving means for receiving data via the power signal and foraccepting commands addressed to one of a first address and a globaladdress. The control parameters include the first address and thereceiving means generates the control signal based upon the data. Thepower line carrier receiving means performs an operation based upon theon/off modulation. The operation is at least one of a reset addressoperation, an update address operation, a broadcast connectionoperation, and a transmit address operation.

In other features, the receiving means further comprises timing meansfor counting after the power signal is received. The control parametersinclude a predetermined value. The receiving means generates the controlsignal when the timing means reaches the predetermined value. Thereceiving means sets the predetermined value based on a duration thatthe power signal is on after a programming mode is initiated. Thereceiving means decreases the predetermined value when the power signalis turned off before the timer module reaches the predetermined value.

In further features, the receiving means increases the predeterminedvalue when the power signal is turned off then on within a predeterminedperiod after the timer module reaches the predetermined value. Thereceiving means decreases the predetermined value when the power signalis turned off, on, and off within a predetermined period, and before thetimer module reaches the predetermined value. The receiving meansincreases the predetermined value when the power signal is turned off,on, off, and on within a predetermined period after the timer modulereaches the predetermined value.

A controllable light bulb comprises an electrical connector; a receivermodule; an electronic switch; a translucent casing; and a lightproducing element. The electrical connector receives a power signal. Thereceiver module is powered by the power signal received via theelectrical connector and selectively generates a control signal whilethe power signal is on. The electronic switch outputs an output powersignal and reduces the output power signal based on the control signal.The translucent casing encases the light producing element. The lightproducing element receives the output power signal.

In other features, the electronic switch reduces the output power signalto one of a dimmed value and an off value when the control signal isreceived. The receiver module includes a timing module that beginscounting after the power signal is received. The receiver modulegenerates the control signal when the timing module reaches apredetermined value. The predetermined value is set at time ofmanufacturing. The predetermined value is set via a user input.

In further features, the user input comprises dip switches. The receivermodule includes read-only memory (ROM) that provides the predeterminedvalue. The receiver module decreases the predetermined value when thepower signal is turned off before the timing module reaches thepredetermined value. The receiver module increases the predeterminedvalue when the power signal is turned off then on within a predeterminedperiod after the timing module reaches the predetermined value.

In still other features, the receiver module decreases the predeterminedvalue when the power signal is turned off, on, and off within apredetermined period and before the timing module reaches thepredetermined value. The receiver module increases the predeterminedvalue when the power signal is turned off, on, off, and on within apredetermined period after the timing module reaches the predeterminedvalue.

In other features, the receiver module includes a power line carrierreceiver module that receives data superimposed on the power signal, andthat generates the control signal based upon the data. The power linecarrier receiver module generates the control signal when the dataindicates a light off command. The power line carrier receiver module isassociated with a first address and accepts commands addressed to one ofthe first address and a global address. The first address is set at timeof manufacture. The first address is set via a user input.

In further features, the user input comprises dip switches. The receivermodule includes read-only memory (ROM) that provides the first address.The receiver module includes a power line carrier transmitter andinstructs the power line carrier transmitter to superimpose the firstaddress on the power signal based upon a sequence of on/off modulationof the power signal. The electrical connector comprises conducting malethreads and a conducting tip. The light producing element comprises ametallic filament.

A method comprises receiving a power signal at a light bulb; outputtingan output power signal to a light producing element; selectivelygenerating a control signal while the power signal is on; and reducingthe output power signal based on the control signal.

In other features, the reducing includes reducing the output powersignal to one of a dimmed value and an off value when the control signalis received. The method further comprises beginning timing a firstperiod when the power signal is received and generating the controlsignal when the first period elapses. The predetermined value is set attime of manufacturing of the light bulb.

In further features, the predetermined value is set via a user input.The method further comprises decreasing the predetermined value when thepower signal is turned off before the first period elapses. The methodfurther comprises increasing the predetermined value when the powersignal is turned off then on within a predetermined period after thefirst period elapses.

In still other features, the method further comprises decreasing thepredetermined value when the power signal is turned off, on, and offwithin a predetermined period and before the first period elapses. Themethod further comprises increasing the predetermined value when thepower signal is turned off, on, off, and on within a predeterminedperiod after the first period elapses. The method further comprisesreceiving data superimposed on the power signal. The selectivelygenerating generates the control signal based upon the data.

In other features, the selectively generating generates the controlsignal when the data indicates a light off command. The method furthercomprises accepting commands addressed to one of a first address and aglobal address. The first address is set at time of manufacture of thelight bulb. The first address is set via a user input. The methodfurther comprises superimposing the first address on the power signalbased upon a sequence of on/off modulation of the power signal.

A controllable light bulb comprises electrical connection means forreceiving a power signal; receiving means for selectively generating acontrol signal while the power signal is on, wherein the receiving meansis powered by the power signal received via the electrical connectionmeans; electronic switching means for outputting an output power signaland for reducing the output power signal based on the control signal;light producing means for producing light and for receiving the outputpower signal; and translucent casing means for enclosing the lightproducing means.

In other features, the electronic switching means reduces the outputpower signal to one of a dimmed value and an off value when the controlsignal is received. The receiving means includes timing means forcounting after the power signal is received. The receiving meansgenerates the control signal when the timing means reaches apredetermined value. The predetermined value is set at time ofmanufacturing.

In further features, the predetermined value is set via a user input.The receiving means includes read-only memory means for providing thepredetermined value. The receiving means decreases the predeterminedvalue when the power signal is turned off before the timing meansreaches the predetermined value. The receiving means increases thepredetermined value when the power signal is turned off then on within apredetermined period after the timing means reaches the predeterminedvalue.

In still other features, the receiving means decreases the predeterminedvalue when the power signal is turned off, on, and off within apredetermined period and before the timing means reaches thepredetermined value. The receiving means increases the predeterminedvalue when the power signal is turned off, on, off, and on within apredetermined period after the timing means reaches the predeterminedvalue. The receiving means includes power line carrier receiving meansfor receiving data superimposed on the power signal and for generatingthe control signal based upon the data.

In other features, the power line carrier receiving means generates thecontrol signal when the data indicates a light off command. The powerline carrier receiving means is associated with a first address andaccepts commands addressed to one of the first address and a globaladdress. The first address is set at time of manufacture. The firstaddress is set via a user input. The receiving means includes read-onlymemory (ROM) that provides the first address. The receiving meansincludes power line carrier transmitting means for superimposing thefirst address on the power signal based upon a sequence of on/offmodulation of the power signal.

A master controller comprises a control module and a missing pulsetransmitter. The control module generates control data for acontrollable device that regulates power consumption of a load. Themissing pulse transmitter receives a periodic power signal, transmits anoutput power signal based on the periodic power signal to thecontrollable device, and encodes the control data in the output powersignal by selectively reducing at least one of a signal amplitude and apower level of the output power signal between zero crossings of theperiodic power signal.

The missing pulse transmitter comprises a switch including a controlterminal that communicates with the control module and a first terminalthat receives the periodic power signal. The switch comprises a triac.The switch outputs approximately zero power in the output power signalbetween the zero crossings. The master controller further comprises auser interface including M inputs, wherein M is an integer greater thanone; and a parameter control module that stores M control parameterscorresponding to the M inputs, wherein when one of the M inputs isactuated, the control module generates the control data based on acorresponding one of the M control parameters.

The master controller further comprises a power line interface thatreceives data superimposed on the periodic power signal. The controlmodule generates the control data based on the data from the power lineinterface. The master controller further comprises a wireless interfacethat receives data. The control module generates the control data basedon the data from the wireless interface.

The master controller further comprises a receiver that detects currentconsumed by the controllable device and that decodes the currentconsumption as data received from the controllable device. A systemcomprises the master controller and further comprises the controllabledevice. The controllable device further comprises a missing pulsereceiver that receives the output power signal and that decodes thecontrol data in the output power signal by detecting a decrease in atleast one of the signal amplitude and the power level of the outputpower signal between zero crossings of the output power signal.

The controllable device further comprises a control module that storesthe control data and that generates a control signal based on thecontrol data; and a switch that adjusts a load power signal for the loadbased on the output power signal and the control signal. The switchincludes a control terminal that receives the control signal and a firstterminal that receives the output power signal. The switch sets the loadpower signal to one of a dimmed value, an on value, and an off value.The missing pulse receiver compares the at least one of the signalamplitude and the power level between the zero crossings to apredetermined value.

The control module includes a timing module. The control data includesat least one timing period. The control signal is based on the at leastone timing period. The controllable device further comprises a parameterstorage module that communicates with the control module and that storesP control pairs, each including a power level value and a timer value,wherein P is an integer greater than zero. The control signal is basedon one of the P control pairs and then is based on another of the Pcontrol pairs after the timer value associated with the one of the Pcontrol pairs expires.

A method comprises generating control data for a controllable devicethat regulates power consumption of a load; receiving a periodic powersignal; transmitting an output power signal based on the periodic powersignal to the controllable device; and encoding the control data in theoutput power signal by selectively reducing at least one of a signalamplitude and a power level of the output power signal between zerocrossings of the periodic power signal.

The method further comprises selectively reducing the output powersignal to approximately zero power between the zero crossings. Themethod further comprises storing M control parameters corresponding to Minputs and generating the control data based on a corresponding one ofthe M control parameters when one of the M inputs is actuated. Themethod further comprises receiving data superimposed on the periodicpower signal and generating the control data based on the superimposeddata.

The method further comprises wirelessly receiving data and generatingthe control data based on the wirelessly received data. The methodfurther comprises detecting current consumed by the controllable deviceand decoding the current consumption as data received from thecontrollable device. The method further comprises receiving the outputpower signal and decoding the control data in the output power signal bydetecting a decrease in at least one of the signal amplitude and thepower level of the output power signal between zero crossings of theoutput power signal.

The method further comprises generating a control signal based on thecontrol data and adjusting a load power signal for the load based on theoutput power signal and the control signal. The method further comprisessetting the load power signal to one of a dimmed value, an on value, andan off value. The method further comprises comparing the at least one ofthe signal amplitude and the power level, between the zero crossings toa predetermined value.

The method further comprises timing at least one period based on thecontrol data and generating the control signal based on the at least oneperiod. The method further comprises storing P control pairs, eachincluding a power level value and a timer value, wherein P is an integergreater than zero. The method further comprises generating the controlsignal based on one of the P control pairs and generating the controlsignal based on another of the P control pairs after the timer valueassociated with the one of the P control pairs expires.

A master controller comprises control means for generating control datafor a controllable device that regulates power consumption of a load;and missing pulse transmitting means for receiving a periodic powersignal, that transmits an output power signal based on the periodicpower signal to the controllable device, and for encoding the controldata in the output power signal by selectively reducing at least one ofa signal amplitude and a power level of the output power signal betweenzero crossings of the periodic power signal.

The missing pulse transmitting means comprises a switch including acontrol terminal that communicates with the control means and a firstterminal that receives the periodic power signal. The switch comprises atriac. The switch outputs approximately zero power in the output powersignal between the zero crossings. The master controller furthercomprises user interface means for receiving one of M inputs from auser, wherein M is an integer greater than one; and parameter storagemeans for storing M control parameters corresponding to the M inputs,wherein when one of the M inputs is actuated, the control meansgenerates the control data based on a corresponding one of the M controlparameters.

The master controller further comprises power line interfacing means forreceiving data superimposed on the periodic power signal. The controlmeans generates the control data based on the data from the power lineinterfacing means. The master controller further comprises wirelessinterfacing means for receiving data wirelessly. The control meansgenerates the control data based on the wirelessly received data.

The master controller further comprises receiving means for detectingcurrent consumed by the controllable device and for decoding the currentconsumption as data received from the controllable device. A systemcomprises the master controller and further comprises the controllabledevice. The controllable device further comprises missing pulsereceiving means for receiving the output power signal and for decodingthe control data in the output power signal by detecting a decrease inat least one of the signal amplitude and the power level of the outputpower signal between zero crossings of the output power signal.

The controllable device further comprises control means for storing thecontrol data and for generating a control signal based on the controldata; and switching means for adjusting a load power signal for the loadbased on the output power signal and the control signal. The switchingmeans includes a control terminal that receives the control signal and afirst terminal that receives the output power signal. The switchingmeans sets the load power signal to one of a dimmed value, an on value,and an off value. The missing pulse receiving means compares the atleast one of the signal amplitude and the power level between the zerocrossings to a predetermined value.

The control means includes timing means for timing at least one period.The control data includes the at least one timing period. The controlsignal is based on the timing means. The controllable device furthercomprises parameter storage means for communicating with the controlmeans and for storing P control pairs, each including a power levelvalue and a timer value, wherein P is an integer greater than zero. Thecontrol signal is based on one of the P pairs and then is based onanother of the P pairs after the timer value associated with the one ofthe P pairs expires.

A controllable device comprises a missing pulse receiver that receives afirst power signal and that decodes control data in the first powersignal by detecting a decrease in at least one of a signal amplitude anda power level of the first power signal between zero crossings of thefirst power signal; a control module that stores the control data andthat generates a control signal based on the control data; and a switchthat adjusts a load power signal for a load based on the first powersignal and the control signal.

The switch includes a control terminal that receives the control signaland a first terminal that receives the first power signal. The missingpulse receiver compares the at least one of the signal amplitude and thepower level between the zero crossings to a predetermined value. Theswitch sets the load power signal to one of a dimmed value, an on value,and an off value. The control module includes a timing module. Thecontrol data includes a timing period. The control signal is based onthe timing period. The controllable device further comprises a parameterstorage module that communicates with the control module and that storesP control pairs, each including a power level value and a timer value,wherein P is an integer greater than one.

The P control pairs are based on the control data. The control signal isbased on one of the P control pairs and then is based on another of theP control pairs after the timer value associated with the one of the Pcontrol pairs expires. The at least one of the P control pairs in theparameter storage module is selected based on the control data. A systemcomprises the controllable device and further comprises a mastercontroller. The master controller comprises a control module thatgenerates the control data for the controllable device; and a missingpulse transmitter that receives a periodic power signal, that transmitsthe first power signal based on the periodic power signal to thecontrollable device, and that encodes the control data in the firstpower signal by selectively reducing the at least one of the signalamplitude and the power level of the first power signal between zerocrossings of the periodic power signal.

The missing pulse transmitter includes a switch including a controlterminal that communicates with the control module and a first terminalthat receives the periodic power signal. The switch comprises a triac.The switch outputs approximately zero power in the first power signalbetween the zero crossings. The master controller further comprises auser interface including M inputs, wherein M is an integer greater thanone; and a parameter control module that stores M control parameterscorresponding to the M inputs, wherein when one of the M inputs isactuated, the control module generates the control data based on acorresponding one of the M control parameters.

The master controller further comprises a power line interface thatreceives data superimposed on the periodic power signal. The controlmodule generates the control data based on the data from the power lineinterface. The master controller further comprises a wireless interfacethat receives data. The control module generates the control data basedon the data from the wireless interface. The master controller furthercomprises a receiver that detects current consumed by the controllabledevice and that decodes the current consumption as data for the mastercontroller from the controllable device.

A method comprises receiving a first power signal; decoding control datain the first power signal by detecting a decrease in at least one of asignal amplitude and a power level of the first power signal betweenzero crossings of the first power signal; generating a control signalbased on the control data; and adjusting a load power signal for a loadbased on the first power signal and the control signal.

The method further comprises comparing the at least one of the signalamplitude and the power level between the zero crossings to apredetermined value. The method further comprises setting the load powersignal to one of a dimmed value, an on value, and an off value. Themethod further comprises timing at least one period based on the controldata and generating the control signal based on the at least one period.The method further comprises storing P control pairs, each including apower level value and a timer value, wherein P is an integer greaterthan one.

The P control pairs are based on the control data. The method furthercomprises generating the control signal based on one of the P controlpairs and generating the control signal based on another of the Pcontrol pairs after the timer value associated with the one of the Pcontrol pairs expires. The method further comprises selecting the one ofthe P control pairs in the parameter storage module based on the controldata.

The method further comprises receiving a periodic power signaltransmitting the first power signal based on the periodic power signaland encoding the control data in the first power signal by selectivelyreducing the at least one of the signal amplitude and the power level ofthe first power signal between zero crossings of the periodic powersignal. The method further comprises reducing the first power signal toapproximately zero power between the zero crossings. The method furthercomprises storing M control parameters corresponding to M inputs andgenerating the control data based on a corresponding one of the Mcontrol parameters when one of the M inputs is actuated.

The method further comprises receiving data superimposed on the periodicpower signal and generating the control data based on the superimposeddata. The method further comprises wirelessly receiving data andgenerating the control data based on the wirelessly received data. Themethod further comprises detecting current consumed by the controllabledevice and decoding the current consumption as data received from thecontrollable device.

A controllable device comprises missing pulse receiving means forreceiving a first power signal and for decoding control data in thefirst power signal by detecting a decrease in at least one of a signalamplitude and a power level of the first power signal between zerocrossings of the first power signal; control means for storing thecontrol data and for generating a control signal based on the controldata; and switching means for adjusting a load power signal for a loadbased on the first power signal and the control signal.

The switching means includes a control terminal that receives thecontrol signal and a first terminal that receives the first powersignal. The missing pulse receiving means compares the at least one ofthe signal amplitude and the power level between the zero crossings to apredetermined value. The switching means sets the load power signal toone of a dimmed value, an on value, and an off value. The control meansincludes timing means for timing at least one period. The control dataincludes the at least one period. The control signal is based on thetiming period.

The controllable device further comprises parameter storage means forcommunicating with the control means and for storing P control pairs,each including a power level value and a timer value, wherein P is aninteger greater than one. The P control pairs are based on the controldata. The control signal is based on one of the P control pairs and thenis based on another of the P control pairs after the timer valueassociated with the one of the P control pairs expires.

The at least one of the P control pairs in the parameter storage meansis selected based on the control data. A system comprises thecontrollable device and further comprises a master controller. Themaster controller comprises control means for generating the controldata for the controllable device; and missing pulse transmitting meansfor receiving a periodic power signal, for transmitting the first powersignal based on the periodic power signal to the controllable device,and for encoding the control data in the first power signal byselectively reducing the at least one of the signal amplitude and thepower level of the first power signal between zero crossings of theperiodic power signal.

The missing pulse transmitting means includes a switch including acontrol terminal that communicates with the control means and a firstterminal that receives the periodic power signal. The switch comprises atriac. The switch outputs approximately zero power in the first powersignal between the zero crossings. The master controller furthercomprises user interfacing means for receiving one of M inputs, whereinM is an integer greater than one; and parameter control means forstoring M control parameters corresponding to the M inputs, wherein whenone of the M inputs is actuated, the control means generates the controldata based on a corresponding one of the M control parameters.

The master controller further comprises power line interfacing means forreceiving data superimposed on the periodic power signal. The controlmeans generates the control data based on the data from the power lineinterfacing means. The master controller further comprises wirelessinterfacing means for receiving data. The control means generates thecontrol data based on the data from the wireless interfacing means. Themaster controller further comprises receiving means for detectingcurrent consumed by the controllable device and for decoding the currentconsumption as data for the master controller from the controllabledevice.

An installation programmer comprises a control module that generatesprogramming data for a controllable device that regulates powerconsumption of a load, the programming data including at least one oftimer values and power level values; and a missing pulse transmitterthat receives a periodic power signal, that transmits an output powersignal based on the periodic power signal to the controllable device,and that encodes the programming data in the output power signal byselectively reducing at least one of a signal amplitude and a powerlevel of the output power signal between zero crossings of the periodicpower signal.

The missing pulse transmitter comprises a switch including a controlterminal that communicates with the control module and a first terminalthat receives the periodic power signal. The switch comprises a triac.The switch outputs approximately zero power in the output power signalbetween the zero crossings. The installation programmer furthercomprises a user interface including M inputs, wherein M is an integergreater than one; and a parameter control module that stores Mprogramming parameters corresponding to the M inputs, wherein when oneof the M inputs is actuated, the control module generates theprogramming data based on a corresponding one of the M programmingparameters.

The installation programmer further comprises a receiver that detectscurrent consumed by the controllable device and that decodes the currentconsumption as data received from the controllable device. Theinstallation programmer further comprises nonvolatile memory. Thecontrol module stores the data received from the controllable device inthe nonvolatile memory, and selectively generates the programming databased on the data stored in the nonvolatile memory.

The programming data includes at least one pair of a timer value and apower level value. A system comprises the installation programmer andfurther comprises the controllable device. The controllable devicefurther comprises a missing pulse receiver that receives the outputpower signal and that decodes the programming data in the output powersignal by detecting a decrease in at least one of the signal amplitudeand the power level of the output power signal between zero crossings ofthe output power signal.

The controllable device further comprises a control module that storesthe programming data; that generates control data based on theprogramming data, and that generates a control signal based on thecontrol data; and a switch that adjusts a load power signal for the loadbased on the output power signal and the control signal. The switchincludes a control terminal that receives the control signal and a firstterminal that receives the output power signal. The switch adjusts theoutput power signal to one of a dimmed value, an on value, and an offvalue.

The missing pulse receiver compares the signal amplitude between thezero crossings to a predetermined signal amplitude. The missing pulsereceiver compares the power level between the zero crossings to apredetermined power level. The control module includes a timing module.The programming data includes at least one timing period. The controlsignal is based on the at least one timing period.

The controllable device further comprises a parameter storage modulethat communicates with the control module and that stores P controlpairs, each including a power level value and a timer value, wherein Pis an integer greater than zero. The control signal is based on one ofthe P pairs and then is based on another of the P pairs after the timervalue associated with the one of the P pairs expires.

A method comprises generating programming data for a controllable devicethat regulates power consumption of a load, the programming dataincluding at least one of timer values and power level values; receivinga periodic power signal; transmitting an output power signal based onthe periodic power signal to the controllable device; and encoding theprogramming data in the output power signal by selectively reducing atleast one of a signal amplitude and a power level of the output powersignal between zero crossings of the periodic power signal.

The method further comprises reducing the output power signal toapproximately zero power between the zero crossings. The method furthercomprises storing M control parameters corresponding to M inputs andgenerating the programming data based on a corresponding one of the Mcontrol parameters when one of the M inputs is actuated. The methodfurther comprises detecting current consumed by the controllable deviceand decoding the current consumption as data received from thecontrollable device.

The method further comprises storing the data received from thecontrollable device in nonvolatile memory and selectively generating theprogramming data based on the data received from the controllabledevice. The programming data includes at least one pair of a timer valueand a power level value. The method further comprises receiving theoutput power signal and decoding the programming data in the outputpower signal by detecting a decrease in at least one of the signalamplitude and the power level of the output power signal between zerocrossings of the output power signal.

The method further comprises generating control data based on theprogramming data generating a control signal based on the control dataand adjusting a load power signal for the load based on the output powersignal and the control signal. The method further comprises adjustingthe load power signal to one of a dimmed value, an on value, and an offvalue. The method further comprises timing at least one period based onthe control data and generating the control signal based on the at leastone period.

The method further comprises comparing the at least one of the signalamplitude and the power level between the zero crossings to apredetermined value. The method further comprises storing P controlpairs, each including a power level value and a timer value, wherein Pis an integer greater than zero. The method further comprises generatingthe control signal based on one of the P control pairs and generatingthe control signal based on another of the P control pairs after thetimer value associated with the one of the P control pairs expires.

An installation programmer comprises control means for generatingprogramming data for a controllable device that regulates powerconsumption of a load, the programming data including at least one oftimer values and power level values; and missing pulse transmittingmeans for receiving a periodic power signal, for transmitting an outputpower signal based on the periodic power signal to the controllabledevice, and for encoding the programming data in the output power signalby selectively reducing at least one of a signal amplitude and a powerlevel of the output power signal between zero crossings of the periodicpower signal.

The missing pulse transmitting means comprises a switch including acontrol terminal that communicates with the control means and a firstterminal that receives the periodic power signal. The switch comprises atriac. The switch outputs approximately zero power in the output powersignal between the zero crossings. The installation programmer furthercomprises user interfacing means for receiving one of M inputs, whereinM is an integer greater than one; and parameter control means forstoring M programming parameters corresponding to the M inputs, whereinwhen one of the M inputs is actuated, the control means generates theprogramming data based on a corresponding one of the M programmingparameters.

The installation programmer further comprises receiving means fordetecting current consumed by the controllable device and for decodingthe current consumption as data received from the controllable device.The installation programmer further comprises nonvolatile memory. Thecontrol means stores the data received from the controllable device inthe nonvolatile memory, and selectively generates the programming databased on the data stored in the nonvolatile memory. The programming dataincludes at least one pair of a timer value and a power level value.

A system comprises the installation programmer and further comprises thecontrollable device. The controllable device further comprises missingpulse receiving means for receiving the output power signal and fordecoding the programming data in the output power signal by detecting adecrease in at least one of the signal amplitude and the power level ofthe output power signal between zero crossings of the output powersignal.

The controllable device further comprises control means for storing theprogramming data; for generating control data based on the programmingdata, and for generating a control signal based on the control data; andswitching means for adjusting a load power signal for the load based onthe output power signal and the control signal. The switching meansincludes a control terminal that receives the control signal and a firstterminal that receives the output power signal. The switching meansadjusts the output power signal to one of a dimmed value, an on value,and an off value.

The missing pulse receiving means compares the signal amplitude betweenthe zero crossings to a predetermined signal amplitude. The missingpulse receiving means compares the power level between the zerocrossings to a predetermined power level. The control means includestiming means for timing at least one timing period. The programming dataincludes the at least one timing period. The control signal is based onthe timing means.

The controllable device further comprises parameter storage means forcommunicating with the control means and for storing P control pairs,each including a power level value and a timer value, wherein P is aninteger greater than zero. The control signal is based on one of the Ppairs and then is based on another of the P pairs after the timer valueassociated with the one of the P pairs expires.

Further areas of applicability of the present disclosure will becomeapparent from the detailed description provided hereinafter. It shouldbe understood that the detailed description and specific examples, whileindicating the preferred embodiment of the disclosure, are intended forpurposes of illustration only and are not intended to limit the scope ofthe disclosure.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The present disclosure will become more fully understood from thedetailed description and the accompanying drawings, wherein:

FIG. 1 is a functional block diagram of a lighting system according tothe prior art;

FIGS. 2-5 are functional block diagrams of exemplary electric lightingsystems according to the principles of the present disclosure;

FIG. 6 is a functional block diagram of an exemplary controllable bulbaccording to the principles of the present disclosure;

FIG. 7 is a functional block diagram of an exemplary controllableadapter according to the principles of the present disclosure;

FIG. 8 is a functional block diagram of an exemplary controllablefixture according to the principles of the present disclosure;

FIGS. 9-18 are functional block diagrams of exemplary controllersaccording to the principles of the present disclosure;

FIGS. 19-20 are functional block diagrams of exemplary programmingmodules according to the principles of the present disclosure;

FIG. 21 is a group of exemplary tables indicating exemplary powerprovision presence and absence sequences and associated instructions;

FIG. 22 is a flowchart depicting exemplary steps performed by a user ininitiating programming in a programming module;

FIG. 23 is a flowchart depicting exemplary operation of the programmingmodule in allowing for user programming input;

FIGS. 24-26 are flowcharts depicting exemplary programming operationsperformed by a user;

FIG. 27 is a functional schematic diagram of an exemplary programmingmodule that implements the programming operation of FIG. 26;

FIGS. 28-29 are flowcharts depicting exemplary operation of programmingmodules in allowing for user programming input;

FIGS. 30-30B are functional block diagrams of exemplary programmableload control systems according to the principles of the presentdisclosure;

FIGS. 31A-D illustrate missing pulse transmission according to theprinciples of the present disclosure;

FIG. 32 illustrates an exemplary user interface according to theprinciples of the present disclosure;

FIGS. 33A-C are functional block diagrams of exemplary parameter controlmodules according to the principles of the present disclosure;

FIGS. 34A and 35A are functional block diagrams of exemplary wiringconfigurations for missing pulse transmitters according to theprinciples of the present disclosure;

FIGS. 34B and 35B are functional block diagrams of exemplary missingpulse transmitters according to the principles of the presentdisclosure;

FIGS. 36A-B are functional block diagrams of exemplary controllabledevices according to the principles of the present disclosure;

FIG. 37 is a functional block diagram of an exemplary device controlmodule according to the principles of the present disclosure; and

FIG. 38 is a functional block diagram of an exemplary installationprogrammer according to the principles of the present disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The following description is merely exemplary in nature and is in no wayintended to limit the disclosure, its application, or uses. For purposesof clarity, the same reference numbers will be used in the drawings toidentify similar elements. As used herein, the phrase at least one of A,B, and C should be construed to mean a logical (A or B or C), using anon-exclusive logical or. It should be understood that steps within amethod may be executed in different order without altering theprinciples of the present disclosure.

As used herein, the term module refers to an Application SpecificIntegrated Circuit (ASIC), an electronic circuit, a processor (shared,dedicated, or group) and memory that execute one or more software orfirmware programs, a combinational logic circuit, and/or other suitablecomponents that provide the described functionality.

Referring now to FIG. 2, a functional block diagram of an exemplaryelectric lighting system is presented. A service panel 202 communicatesvia an electrical distribution line 203 with a switch 204. The switch204 may be a wall switch, a toggle switch, a rocker switch, a dimmerswitch, or any other suitable switch. The switch 204 controls flow ofpower to a light fixture 206. A controllable bulb 208 communicates withthe light fixture 206.

The controllable bulb 208 may include a receiver for receiving controlsignals. The control signals may include wireline signals received viathe electrical distribution line 203 and/or wireless signals receivedvia radio frequency (RE) broadcasts. These control signals may instructthe controllable bulb 208 to decrease or increase light output.

In various implementations, the controllable bulb 208 may include atimer that turns off a light after a predetermined period of time. Theduration of the timer may be programmed at the time of manufacturing,set at installation time, and/or modified by the user once installed. Asdescribed in more detail below, the user may modify operation of thetimer by transmitting control signals, such as using a power linetransmitter and/or a radio frequency (RE) transmitter, and/or bymodulating the switch 204.

By using the controllable bulb 208 instead of a standard bulb, theoperation of the light fixture 206 can be automated without the need foran electrician to replace the switch 204. The level of automationprovided by controllable bulbs may include timed light shut-off,whole-house light shut-off, computer-controlled lighting control, and/orweb-accessible lighting control. The principles of the presentdisclosure work equally well in a configuration containing three-way orfour-way switches.

Referring now to FIG. 3, a functional block diagram of another exemplaryelectric lighting system is presented. A power line carrier controlmodule 250 communicates with the electrical distribution line 203 orwith another electrical distribution line (not shown) that is incommunication with the service panel 202. The power line carrier controlmodule 250 superimposes control signals onto the electrical distributionline 203. A controllable bulb 252 receives the control signals via theswitch 204 and the light fixture 206.

The power line carrier control module 250 may include a user interface,which allows a user to increase or decrease light output from one ormore light sources, such as the controllable bulb 252. The power linecarrier control module 250 may also communicate with a mobile device254, such as a laptop computer, a personal digital assistant (PDA),and/or a mobile phone. The mobile device 254 may send lighting commandsto the power line carrier control module 250 via wired or wirelessnetworks, such as wired Ethernet, or wireless interfaces such as IEEE802.11, 802.11a, 802.11b, 802.11g, 802.11h, 802.11n, 802.16, 802.20,and/or Bluetooth.

Referring now to FIG. 4, a functional block diagram of another exemplaryelectric lighting system is presented. The service panel 202communicates with the switch 204 via the electrical distribution line203. The switch 204 communicates with a controllable light fixture 300.A light bulb 302 communicates with the controllable light fixture 300.The controllable light fixture 300 allows control of light outputwithout requiring manual activation of the switch 204.

Once a traditional light fixture is replaced with the controllable lightfixture 300, standard light bulbs, such as the light bulb 302, can beused. The light bulb 302 and the controllable bulbs 208 and 252 mayinclude incandescent, halogen, fluorescent, light-emitting diode, and/orother suitable light producing elements.

Referring now to FIG. 5, a functional block diagram of another exemplaryelectric lighting system is presented. For purposes of clarity,reference numerals from FIG. 2 and FIG. 4 are used to identify similarcomponents. The service panel 202 communicates with the switch 204 viathe electrical distribution line 203.

The switch 204 communicates with the light fixture 206. A controllableadapter 350 is installed between the light fixture 206 and the lightbulb 302. For example, the controllable adapter 350 may include a maleportion that engages the light fixture 206 and a female portion thatengages the light bulb 302. Neither the switch 204 nor the light fixture206 needs to be replaced. In addition, standard light bulbs, such as thelight bulb 302, may be used.

Referring now to FIG. 6, a functional block diagram of an exemplarycontrollable bulb 400 is presented. The controllable bulb 400, which maybe used as the controllable bulb 208 of FIG. 2, includes a lightproducing element 402, a controller 404, and an electronic switch 406.The light producing element 402 may include a filament, such as thefilament in a halogen light bulb or an incandescent light bulb. Thelight producing element 402 may also include a fluorescent light bulband/or a compact fluorescent light bulb, and may include a built-inballast.

The light producing element 402 may include one or more light emittingdiodes (LEDs). The light producing element 402 and/or other componentsof the controllable bulb 400 may be enclosed in a translucent casing408, which may be airtight and may be made from such materials as glassand/or plastic. The controller 404 may communicate power via first andsecond supply lines or conductors.

For example, the first and second supply lines may provide power andground, first and second line voltages (such as those in three-phasesystems), and/or other suitable supply and/or reference potentials. Invarious implementations, the controllable bulb 400 may have conductingmale threads, which communicate with one of the first and second supplylines, and a conducting tip, which communicates with the other of thefirst and second supply lines.

The controller 404 generates a control signal for the electronic switch406, as described in more detail below. Based upon the control signal,the electronic switch 406 selectively allows current from the firstsupply line to pass to the light producing element 402. Alternately, theelectronic switch 406 may be placed on the other side of the lightproducing element 402, and selectively allow current to flow through thesecond supply line. In various implementations, the electronic switch406 may include a power transistor, a triac, a silicon controlledrectifier (SCR), or some other suitable device.

The electronic switch 406 may include dimming functionality. Forexample, based on the control signal, the electronic switch 406 mayreduce the voltage, alter the wave shape, and/or alter the frequency ofpower provided to the light producing element. The electronic switch 406may include a switching circuit that switches off during portions ofeach cycle of an AC power signal to provide dimming. The electronicswitch 406 may include a rectifier for producing DC power, and mayinclude a DC-to-DC converter to reduce voltage. The electronic switch406 may include a wave-shaping module that alters a wave shape of the ACpower signal to provide dimming.

The control signal from the controller 404 may include a digital signalthat transitions from high to low or from low to high to instruct theelectronic switch to prevent current from passing to the light producingelement 402. The control signal may include an analog signalcorresponding to the amount of dimming to be produced by the electronicswitch 406. The analog signal may vary from one of a digital highvoltage or a digital low voltage to the other of the digital high andlow voltages. One extreme value of the analog signal may correspond tothe light producing element 402 being off and the other extreme valuemay correspond to the light producing element 402 being fully on.

Referring now to FIG. 7, a functional block diagram of an exemplarycontrollable adapter 450 is presented. The controllable adapter 450,which may be used as the controllable adapter 350 of FIG. 5, includes acontroller 452 and an electronic switch 454. The controller 452communicates with first and second supply lines. The controller 452provides a control signal to the electronic switch 454. The electronicswitch 454 selectively interrupts the first supply line based upon thecontrol signal. Signals on the switched first supply line and/or thesecond supply line are output by the controllable adapter 450 to a lightproducing element (not shown).

Referring now to FIG. 8, a functional block diagram of an exemplarycontrollable fixture 500 is presented. The controllable fixture 500,which may be used as the controllable light fixture 300 of FIG. 4,includes a controller 502 and an electronic switch 504. The controller502 may receive power from first and second supply lines. The controller502 may communicate with the second supply line.

The controller 502 generates a control signal, which is output to theelectronic switch 504. Based upon the control signal, the electronicswitch 504 selectively interrupts current flowing on the first supplyline. The first and/or second supply lines are selectively connected bythe controllable fixture 500 to a light bulb (not shown).

Referring now to FIGS. 9-18, exemplary controllers are shown, such asthose used in the controllable bulb 400, the controllable adapter 450,and the controllable fixture 500 of FIGS. 6-8. In FIG. 9, a functionalblock diagram of an exemplary controller 550 is presented. Thecontroller 550 includes a timer 552. The timer 552 receives power viafirst and second supply lines. The timer 552 may include an internalpower supply (not shown) to convert the voltage from the first andsecond supply lines into a voltage appropriate for operating digitallogic.

The timer 552 may begin running when it receives power, such as when amanual light switch is turned on. While running, the timer 552 asserts afirst control signal directing an electronic switch to remain closed(conducting). The light controlled by the electronic switch remains on.Once the timer reaches a predetermined timer value, the timer 552asserts a second control signal indicating that the electronic switchshould open, which turns the associated light off. The timer 552 may bereset by temporarily removing power, such as by turning the manual lightswitch off and back on.

Referring now to FIG. 10, a functional block diagram of anotherexemplary controller 600 is presented. The controller 600 includes apower line carrier receiver 602, which receives power and controlsignals via first and second supply lines. Based upon the receivedcontrol signals, the power line carrier receiver 602 selectively outputsa control signal to open and close an electronic switch.

The received control signals may comprise light on and light offsignals, corresponding to output control signals for closing and openingthe electronic switch, respectively. In order to communicate with thepower line carrier receiver 602, an address may be assigned to the powerline carrier receiver 602, such as at the time of manufacture or duringinstallation. The address may be globally unique or may be uniquethroughout a building so that commands to the controller 600 can bespecifically addressed to the controller 600.

The assigned address may be written on the packaging of the controller600, so that the assigned address can be programmed into a power linecarrier control module. The power line carrier control module can thensend commands specifically addressed to the controller 600. In variousembodiments, the power line carrier receiver 602 may respond touniversally-addressed commands, allowing a power line carrier controlmodule to, for instance, turn off all lights in a building.

Referring now to FIG. 11, a functional block diagram of still anotherexemplary controller 650 is presented. The controller 650 includes atimer 652 and a user input device 654. The user input device 654 mayinclude dials, pushbuttons, and/or other devices. The user input device654 determines a timer value for the timer 652.

The timer 652 asserts a first control signal until the timer valueindicated by the user input device 654 is reached. The timer 652 thenasserts a second control signal. The first and second control signalsdirect an electronic switch to close and open, respectively. A lightcontrolled by the electronic switch therefore stays on until the secondcontrol signal is received.

The user input device 654 may also include a motion sensing module 656.When motion is sensed prior to the timer 652 reaching the timer value,the user input device 654 may increase the tinier value. The increasemay be by a predetermined amount or may be related to the amount of timebefore the previous timer value would have been reached. If the timer652 has already reached the timer value, the user input device 654 mayrespond to sensed motion by resetting the timer 652, thereby turning thelight back on.

Referring now to FIG. 12, a functional block diagram of yet anotherexemplary controller 700 is presented. The controller 700 includes apower line carrier receiver 702 and a user input device, such as dipswitches 704. The power line carrier receiver 702 receives power andcontrol signals via first and second supply lines.

Based upon received control signals, the power line carrier receiver 702instructs an electronic switch to open or close. The dip switches 704determine the assigned address of the power line carrier receiver 702.In this way, each controller 700 in a building may be assigned adifferent address that allows it to respond to specifically addressedcontrol signals.

Referring now to FIG. 13, a functional block diagram of anotherexemplary controller 750 is presented. The controller 750 includes atimer 752 and a programming module 754, which receive power from firstand second supply lines. The timer 752 asserts a control signaldirecting an electronic switch to open once the timer 752 reaches apredetermined timer value.

The predetermined value of the timer 752 may be determined by theprogramming module 754. The programming module 754 may contain aninitial value for the timer 752, which can be replaced by initiating aprogramming operation. In order to initiate a programming operation, amanual light switch, such as the switch 204 of FIG. 2, may be actuatedin a predetermined manner to initiate a programming mode.

For example only, the switch may be turned on and off a predeterminednumber of times during a predetermined period. The light may be flashedon and off, dimmed, or otherwise modulated to indicate that programmingmode has been entered. Once programming mode has been entered, the lightswitch may be turned on and off, in a manner described in more detailbelow, to program a predetermined timer value. The programming module754 outputs the timer value to the timer module 752 and may store thetimer value in nonvolatile memory.

Referring now to FIG. 14, a functional block diagram of anotherexemplary controller 800 is presented. The controller 800 includes apower line carrier receiver 802 and a programming module 804. The powerline carrier receiver 802 receives power and control signals from firstand second supply lines. The power line carrier receiver 802 monitorsthe control signals for commands directed to a specified address.

As with the programming module 754 of FIG. 13, the programming module804 of FIG. 14 may receive data by monitoring switching of power on thesupply lines. Based upon a predetermined pattern of power switching, theprogramming module 804 may initiate a listen mode. In listen mode, theprogramming module 804 directs the power line carrier receiver 802 tolisten for an address broadcast over the first and second supply linesvia power line carrier.

A power line carrier control module may then broadcast a messageincluding an address over the first and second supply lines. The powerline carrier receiver 802 can then use the received address as itsassigned address, allowing future commands to be addressed specificallyto the power line carrier receiver 802. This process can be repeated forother controllers within a building, thereby assigning each a uniqueaddress.

After each controller is placed in listen mode, a corresponding uniqueaddress can be broadcast. These unique addresses can then be used toindividually control the controllers. Alternatively, predeterminedpatterns of power switching may provide an address in the programmingmodule 804. The power line carrier receiver 802 can then receive thisaddress from the programming module 804 and respond to received commandsdirected to this address.

Referring now to FIG. 15, a functional block diagram of yet anotherexemplary controller 850 is presented. The controller 850 includes apower line carrier transceiver 852 and may include nonvolatile memory854. The power line carrier transceiver 852 receives power and controlsignals and transmits control signals via first and second supply lines.

When the power line carrier transceiver 852 first receives power afterinstallation, it may transmit an identification signal via the first andsecond supply lines. A power line carrier control module (not shown) incommunication with the first and second supply lines can receive theidentification signal and reply with a unique address. The power linecarrier transceiver 852 receives this unique address and may store it innonvolatile memory 854. The power line carrier transceiver 852 can thenrespond to messages bearing the unique address.

Alternatively, the power line carrier transceiver 852 may include apreprogrammed unique address. Upon receiving power after installation,the power line carrier transceiver 852 can broadcast this uniquepreprogrammed address over the first and second supply lines. The powerline carrier control module can then use this address to subsequentlycommunicate with the controller 850.

When multiple controllers, such as the controller 850, receive powersimultaneously, they may attempt to transmit simultaneously. Collisiondetection can prevent simultaneous transmission, but the assignment ofunique addresses may not be determinate. For this reason, thecontrollers may need to be powered on and/or programmed sequentially.

Referring now to FIG. 16, a functional block diagram of anotherexemplary controller 900 is presented. The controller 900 includes apower line carrier transceiver 902 and a programming module 904. Thepower line carrier transceiver 902 receives and transmits controlsignals via first and second supply lines.

The programming module 904 interprets presence and absence of power onthe supply lines as instructions. The programming module 904communicates commands based on these instructions to the power linecarrier transceiver 902. The programming module 904 may communicate aset address instruction accompanied by a specified address to the powerline carrier transceiver 902. The power line carrier receiver 902 canthen respond to commands directed to the specified address.

The programming module 904 may also send a transmit address command tothe power line carrier transceiver 902. The address transmitted by thepower line carrier transceiver 902 can be received by a power linecarrier control module (not shown) in communication with the first andsecond supply lines. The power line carrier control module can thentransmit messages to the power line carrier transceiver 902 using thataddress.

The programming module 904 may also send a listen command to the powerline carrier transceiver 902. The programming module 904 may then beginusing the next address received in a broadcast message. The programmingmodule 904 may also send a reset address command to the power linecarrier transceiver 902, causing the power line carrier transceiver 902to reset its address to a factory default.

This factory default may be known to the power line carrier controlmodule, allowing it to communicate with the power line carriertransceiver 902 to perform initial setup. At the end of initial setup,the power line carrier control module may assigning a unique address tothe power line carrier transceiver 902.

Referring now to FIG. 17, a functional block diagram of anotherexemplary controller 950 is presented. The controller 950 includes atimer 952 and read only memory (ROM) 954. ROM 954 may be programmed atthe time of manufacture or at the time of installation. Once programmed,ROM 954 provides a timer value 952 to the tinier 952. The timer 952 mayfunction similarly to the timer module 752 of FIG. 13.

Referring now to FIG. 18, a functional block diagram of yet anotherexemplary controller 1000 is presented. The controller includes a powerline carrier receiver 1002 and read only memory (ROM) 1004. ROM 1004 maybe programmed at the time of manufacture or installation, and providesan address to the power line carrier receiver 1002. The power linecarrier receiver 1002 responds to control signals bearing the addressspecified by ROM 1004. Multiple controllers such as the controller 1000within a building can each have their ROM programmed with a uniqueaddress. The power line carrier receiver 1002 may function similarly tothe power line carrier receiver 802 of FIG. 14.

Referring now to FIG. 19, a functional block diagram of an exemplaryprogramming module 1050 is presented. The programming module 1050includes a power supply 1052 that provides power to components of theprogramming module 1050. The programming module 1050 further includes atiming module 1056, a microcontroller 1058, and nonvolatile memory 1060.

Data is communicated to the programming module 1050 by supplying andremoving power using the switch. When power is not being supplied to theprogramming module 1050, the power supply 1052 can not provide power.The charge storage module 1054 therefore stores electrical energy andprovides that electrical energy to the timing module 1056 and themicrocontroller 1058 when power is removed. The timing module 1056 maybe used to monitor the length of time that power is present and thelength of time that power is removed. This information is used toprogram the operation of the controllable bulb, fixture, or adapter.

The microcontroller 1058 receives power presence and absence times fromthe timing module 1056 and interprets them as instructions. The chargestorage module 1054 stores enough charge to power the timing module 1056and the microcontroller 1058 for the longest expected duration that thepower will be removed during programming.

When power is removed for a long period of time, such as when a light ismanually switched off at night, the charge storage module 1054 losesenough charge that the timing module 1056 and the microcontroller 1058cease operation. This is not problematic, as the timing module 1056 andthe microcontroller 1058 need only be active when engaged inprogramming. The microcontroller 1058 stores programming information innonvolatile memory 1060 in preparation for power being removed for anextended period.

Referring now to FIG. 20, a functional block diagram of anotherexemplary programming module 1100 is presented. The programming module1100 includes the power supply 1052, which powers a charge storagemodule 1102, a timing module 1104, a microcontroller 1106, andnonvolatile memory 1108.

The charge storage module 1102 powers the timing module 1104 when poweris removed from the power supply 1052. Once power is restored, themicrocontroller 1106 reads the value of the timing module 1104 andstores the value into nonvolatile memory 1108. In this way, themicrocontroller 1106 can ascertain when power is turned back on withoutbeing powered itself.

In order to determine for how long power was removed, themicrocontroller stores a timer value into nonvolatile memory 1108 beforepower is removed. Because the microcontroller 1106 may not have enoughtime to record a timer value once power is removed, the microcontroller1106 may periodically store the timer value while power is present. Theapproximate length of the power absence can then be determined from thelast timer value written to nonvolatile memory 1108 and the timer valuepresent when power is restored.

Referring now to FIG. 21, exemplary tables depicting power provisionpresence and absence sequences and their associated instructions arepresented. A programming module, such as the programming module 1050 ofFIG. 19 or the programming module 1100 of FIG. 20 may receive data basedon the number of times power is removed (off-cycles). A manual lightswitch can be used to provide this data.

When the switch is on (conducting), the programming module experiencesan on-cycle. When the switch is off (non-conducting), the programmingmodule experiences an off-cycle. When using exemplary table 1152, thenumber of sequential off-cycles that the programming module experiencesdetermines the function the programming module should perform. Toprotect against accidental programming, the programming module may notcount off-cycles until a programming initiation sequence is applied. Anexemplary programming initiation sequence is presented in FIG. 22.

In table 1152, the case of a single off-cycle is reserved to furtherprotect against accidental programming. A sequence of two off-cyclesinstructs the programming module to command a power line carriertransceiver to transmit its identification code. A sequence of threeoff-cycles corresponds to an update identification code instruction.This instruction commands a power line carrier receiver/transceiver toreplace its current identification code with the next one received overthe power line carrier.

The power line carrier receiver/transceiver may stop listening for thereplacement identification code after a predetermined period of time.Another instruction that may correspond to a number of off-cycles is abroadcast connection instruction. This instruction causes the power linecarrier transceiver to broadcast a message indicating that the powerline carrier transceiver. The power line carrier transceiver can thenlisten for a new address to be sent by a power line carrier controlmodule. A sequence of four off-cycles corresponds to a resetidentification code instruction, where the power line carrier receiveris commanded to reset its identification code to a factory default.

Table 1154 presents exemplary instructions appropriate for a timer. Thesingle off-cycle sequence may be reserved. A sequence of two off-cyclesmay indicate that the timer should be set to 5 minutes, thereby reducingpower of the associated light source after 5 minutes. A sequence ofthree off-cycles may correspond to a length of time of 10 minutes.Sequences of four, five, six, seven, eight, nine, and ten off-cycles maycorrespond to 20 minutes, 30 minutes, 40 minutes, 50 minutes, 1 hour,1.5 hours, and 2 hours respectively.

Table 1160 presents exemplary instructions appropriate for power linecarrier transceivers and receivers. The sequences in tables 1160 and1162, which are used to communicate instructions to the programmingmodule, are similar to Morse code. Instead of counting the number ofoff-cycles, the length of time the switch is cycled either on or offdetermines the instruction. Cycling the switch for a short period oftime corresponds to a first binary state, indicated by a dot in Table1160. Cycling the switch for a longer period of time corresponds to asecond binary state, indicated by a dash in Table 1160.

Sequences of long and short cycling actions are interpreted asinstructions by the programming module. The short and long cyclingactions may correspond directly to binary digits, and may be used todirectly program an address or a length of time. Alternatively, as shownin table 1160, certain sequences may correspond to specificinstructions.

A sequence of a short cycling action followed by a long cycling action,followed by a short cycling action, and finally a long cycling actionmay be reserved for future use. A sequence of long, short, short, longmay correspond to a transmit identification code instruction. Similarly,a short, long, long, short sequence may correspond to an updateidentification code instruction, while long, short, long, short maycorrespond to a reset identification code instruction.

Table 1162 contains a sequence-to-instruction mapping suitable for atimer. The sequence long, long, long, long may be reserved for futureuse. The sequence long, long, long, short may correspond to a timerlength of 5 minutes. The sequence long, long, short, long may correspondto 10 minutes. Further binary sequences may correspond to timer lengthsup to, in this example, 2 hours.

Another exemplary programming technique involves periodic sampling. Onceprogramming has been initiated, the programming module will monitor thestate of power at specified intervals. In the middle of each period, theprogramming module determines whether power is present or absent. Thesetwo power conditions correspond to the two binary digits. The intervalmay be, for example, 5 seconds. In order to allow faster programming,the period may be shorter, such as one second or one half second. Table1170 contains an exemplary mapping from measured binary digits toprogramming module functions.

The sequence of 1010 may be reserved for future use. The sequence of0110 may correspond to a transmit identification code instruction. Thesequences 1001 and 0101 may correspond to update identification code andreset identification code instructions, respectively. Table 1172contains a similar exemplary mapping suitable for a timer. The sequence0000 may be reserved for future use. The sequence 0001 may correspond toa timer value of 5 minutes. The sequence 0010 may correspond to a timervalue of 10 minutes, and so on, up to the sequence of 1001 for 2 hours.

Programming sequences may also provide dimming instructions. Forexample, programming sequences may correspond to different dimminglevels. The dimming level may be set in one programming operation, whileduration is set in another. Alternatively, during programming, the lightcould be gradually increased or decreased in intensity, and when itreaches a desired level, the manual light switch could be turned off.This light intensity can then be restored when the manual light switchis turned back on.

Referring now to FIG. 22, a flowchart depicts exemplary steps performedby a user in initiating programming in a programming module. Controlbegins in step 1200, where a controllable light source is switched onfor longer than a predetermined period of time, such as 5 minutes. Thisamount of time allows the charge storage module to store enough chargeto provide power during programming operations where the light sourcewill be turned off.

Control continues in step 1202, where the light source is switched offfor a predetermined time, such as 2 seconds. To allow for uservariability, there may be an error tolerance, such as accepting a timeof between 1 and 3 seconds. Control continues in step 1204, where thelight source is switched on. After waiting one second in step 1206,control continues in step 1208, where the user can start programming.Switching the light source off for 2 seconds in step 1202 and waitingfor 1 second in step 1206 both ensure that programming is notaccidentally initiated.

In step 1208, the user begins programming within a predetermined periodof time, such as 10 seconds. Otherwise, the programming module willassume that programming was not actually desired. In step 1210, the userflips the light off and then back on a specified number of times. Theseare the off-cycles referred to in tables 1152 and 1154 of FIG. 21. Instep 1212, programming ends within a predetermined period of time afterbeginning programming, such as within 20 seconds. At this point, thecounting off-cycles stops and control ends.

Referring now to FIG. 23, a flowchart depicts exemplary operation of theprogramming module to allow for user programming input as specified inFIG. 22. Control starts in step 1300, where control determines if thelight is on. If not, control remains in step 1300; otherwise, controltransfers to step 1302. In step 1300, control may find that the light ison when control begins after power is first supplied to the circuit.

In step 1302, the timer is reset to allow it to monitor the amount oftime that the light is on. Control continues in step 1304, where controldetermines if the light is off. Once the light is off, control transfersto step 1306; otherwise, control remains in step 1304. In step 1306, thetimer is compared to a value of 5 minutes.

If the value of the timer is greater than 5 minutes, indicating that thelight was on for at least 5 minutes, control continues in step 1308;otherwise, control returns to step 1300. This waiting period ensuresthat the charge store module has adequate charge, and also protectsagainst inadvertent initiation of programming. In step 1308, the timeris reset to monitor the duration the light is off.

In step 1310, control determines whether the light is on. Once the lightis on, control transfers to step 1312; otherwise, control remains instep 1310. In step 1312, the timer is compared to a value of 2 seconds.If the timer is approximately equal to 2 seconds, such as within onesecond of 2 seconds, control transfers to step 1314; otherwise, controlreturns to step 1302.

In step 1314, the timer is reset. Control continues in step 1316, wherecontrol determines whether the light is off. Once the light is off,control transfers to step 1318; otherwise, control remains in step 1316.If the value of the timer is less than 10 seconds, indicating thatprogramming has started within 10 seconds, control transfers to step1320; otherwise, control returns to step 1300.

In step 1320, if the timer is greater than 1 second, indicating thatprogramming started after waiting for 1 second, control transfers tostep 1322. Otherwise, the user did not wait the required 1 second, andcontrol returns to step 1300. The 1 second delay provides furtherprotection against programming being inadvertently initiated. In step1322, a variable named count is initialized to zero. Control continuesin step 1324, where the timer is reset.

In step 1326, if the light is on, control transfers to step 1328;otherwise, control transfers to step 1330. In step 1330, if the timer isgreater than 20 seconds, the amount of time for programming has beenexceeded. A single off-cycle has not been completed and control returnsto step 1300. Otherwise, time remains for programming and controlreturns to step 1326. In step 1328, count is incremented and controlcontinues in step 1332.

In step 1332, control determines if the light is off. If the light isoff, control transfers to step 1334; otherwise, control transfers tostep 1336. In step 1334, if the light is on, control transfers to step1328; otherwise, control transfers to step 1338. In step 1338, if thetimer has exceeded 20 seconds, control returns to step 1300; otherwise,control returns to step 1334.

In step 1336, if the timer has exceeded 20 seconds, control transfers tostep 1340; otherwise, control returns to step 1332 to wait for the lightto be turned off. In step 1340, the programming module performs anaction based upon the value of count. The variable count now containsthe number of off-cycles, and the corresponding function may bedetermined, such as by using table 1152 for power line carriertransceivers/receivers or table 1154 for timers. Control then ends.Alternatively, control may return to step 1302 to wait for programmingmode to once again be initiated.

Referring now to FIG. 24, a flowchart depicts exemplary programmingsteps corresponding to tables 1160 and 1162 of FIG. 21. For purposes ofclarity, reference numerals from FIG. 22 are used to identify similarcomponents. The programming module is activated in steps 1200 to 1208,similarly to FIG. 22. Control continues in step 1350, where the light isflipped on and off in the specified sequence.

The sequence is then interpreted, such as by looking at a table, such astable 1160 or table 1162 of FIG. 21. As discussed in greater detail withrespect to FIG. 21, the dots and dashes correspond to lengths of timethat the light is flipped on or off. Depending upon the implementation,the on time or the off time may be of interest. For instance, if the ontime is of interest, the light should be switched on for a short periodof time corresponding to a dot and switched on for a longer period oftime corresponding to the dash, while the time that the light isswitched off is immaterial.

Alternatively, the light could remain on, and be switched off for ashort time corresponding to the dot and switched off for a longer periodof time corresponding to the dash. Control then continues in step 1212,where programming is finished within 20 seconds of beginning. In variousimplementations, the time allowed for programming may be less orgreater. For instance, if an address is directly programmed into theprogramming module, a longer period of time may be allowed. Control thenends.

Referring now to FIG. 25, a flowchart depicts exemplary programmingsteps corresponding to tables 1170 and 1172 of FIG. 21. For purposes ofclarity, reference numerals from FIG. 22 are used to identify similarcomponents. The programming module is activated in steps 1200 to 1208,similarly to FIG. 22. Control continues in step 1370, where the light isturned on or turned off at specified time intervals. The programmingmodule samples whether power is present during each time interval.

For instance, if the time period is 5 seconds long, a sequence of 1001would include of turning the light on for 5 seconds, turning the lightoff for 10 seconds, and turning the light on for 5 seconds. Theprogramming module may sample in the middle of each 5 second period toallow for user variability. Control continues in step 1372, whereprogramming is finished within a predetermined period of time, such as30 seconds. Control then ends.

Referring now to FIG. 26, a flowchart depicts another exemplaryprogramming approach for a user. Control begins in step 1400, where alight is turned on for between 7 and 8 seconds. The light is then turnedoff in step 1402. In step 1404, the light is turned back on within 5seconds. This sequence may generate a program signal, which iscommunicated to a power line carrier receiver or transceiver.

Upon receiving the program signal, the power line carrier transceivermay transmit a message containing its identification code, which can bereceived by a power line carrier control module to obtain the address ofthe controller. Alternatively, the program signal may cause the powerline carrier receiver or transceiver to reset its identification code toa factory set default.

Alternatively, the program signal may cause the power line carriertransceiver or receiver to listen for an instruction, such as an addresssetting instruction. In this case, the user broadcasts a command overthe power line carrier once the power line carrier receiver/transceiveris placed in the listen mode. If an address is then sent to the powerline carrier receiver, the power line carrier receiver can thereafterrespond to commands identified by that address. Control then ends.

Referring now to FIG. 27, a functional schematic diagram of an exemplaryprogramming module implementing the programming operation of FIG. 26 ispresented. A power supply 1450 provides power to a timing module 1452.The timing module 1452 outputs a program signal, which is received by apower line carrier transceiver or receiver.

The timing module 1452 includes a first resistance 1454 having a firstend that communicates with the power supply 1450 and a second end thatcommunicates with a first end of a first capacitor 1456. A second end ofthe first capacitor 1456 communicates with a reference potential, suchas a ground potential. The first end of the first capacitor 1456communicates with a first input of a first comparator 1458.

A second input of the first comparator 1458 communicates with a firstreference voltage generator 1460, which is powered by the power supply1450. The timing module 1452 includes first and second transistors 1462and 1464. In various implementations, the first and second transistors1462 and 1464 are metal-oxide-semiconductor field-effect transistors(MOSFETs) that have gates, sources, and drains, although othertransistor types may be used.

The source of the first transistor 1462 communicates with the powersupply 1450. The gate of the first transistor 1462 communicates with anoutput of the first comparator 1458 and with the gate of the secondtransistor 1464. A second resistance 1466 includes first and second endsthat communicate with the drain terminals of the first and secondtransistors 1462 and 1464, respectively.

The drain of the second transistor 1464 communicates with a first inputof a second comparator 1468 and with a first terminal of a secondcapacitor 1470. A second terminal of the second capacitor 1470 and thesource of the second transistor 1464 communicate with the referencepotential. A second input of the second comparator 1468 communicateswith a second reference voltage generator 1472, which is powered by thepower supply 1450.

An output of the second comparator 1468 is communicated to a latch 1474.The latch 1474 is actuated by a delay module 1476, which receives powerfrom the power supply 1450. The first and second comparators 1458 and1468 and the latch 1474 receive power from the power supply 1450. Anoutput of the latch 1474 serves as the program signal.

When power is first applied to the timing module 1452, the first inputand, therefore, the output of the first comparator 1458 are at thereference potential because there is no charge across the firstcapacitor 1456. The low output of the first comparator 1458 turns offthe second transistor 1464 and turns on the first transistor 1462.Because the first transistor 1462 is on, the second capacitor 1470charges through the second resistance 1466.

The values of the first and second capacitors 1456 and 1470 and thefirst and second resistances 1454 and 1466 are chosen so that the secondcapacitor 1470 will become fully charged before the first capacitor1456. Once the second capacitor 1470 has fully charged and power to thepower supply 1450 is removed, the charge across the second capacitor1470 will slowly discharge.

If power is restored to the power supply 1450 quickly thereafter, therewill be enough charge across the second capacitor 1470 to cause a highoutput on the second comparator 1468. This high output will then belatched by the latch 1474. The latch 1474 is actuated by the delaymodule 1476, which actuates the latch 1474 once the second comparator1468 has had time to settle upon power being supplied by the powersupply 1450.

The output of the latch 1474 will remain high until power is removedfrom the circuit. If, after the second capacitor 1470 had become fullycharged, the power to the power supply 1450 had remained on, the firstcapacitor 1456 eventually would become fully charged. Based on the firstreference voltage generator 1460, the output of the first comparator1458 would go high as the first capacitor 1456 fully charged. This wouldturn off the first transistor 1462 and turn on the second transistor1464. The second transistor 1464 would quickly discharge the chargeacross the second capacitor 1470.

The values of the second resistance 1466 and the second capacitor 1470may be chosen so that the second capacitor 1470 charges in approximately6 seconds, while the values of the first resistance 1454 and the firstcapacitor 1456 are chosen so that the first capacitor 1456 charges inapproximately 8 seconds. The user can then turn on the power and afterbetween 6 and 8 seconds, turn the power off.

Charge will remain on the second capacitor 1470, possibly leading to ahigh programming signal when power is restored. The second referencevoltage generator 1472 determines how much charge remaining on thesecond capacitor 1470 will produce a high output from the secondcomparator 1468. For example, the second reference voltage generator1472 may be designed so that power can be removed for up to 5 seconds.The timing module 1452 can be modified to allow for more complexprogramming procedures. For example, further comparators and capacitorsmay be added to track more on/off actuations before the programmingsignal is produced.

Referring now to FIG. 28, an exemplary method 1500 for operating thecontrollable fixture, adapter, and/or bulb is shown. In this approach,the controllable fixture, adapter, or bulb is placed in the programmingmode using any suitable approach. Then, the user leaves the light on fora period that is equal to the desired duration for automatic turn-off,the user turns off the light. The controllable fixture, adapter, or bulbmeasures and stores this duration. The controllable fixture, adapter, orbulb then automatically turns off the light after the light has been onfor the stored duration.

Control begins in step 1508, where control determines whether aprogramming mode has been entered. If step 1508 is true, control startsa timer (Timer1) in step 1512. In step 1516, control determines whetherlight has been turned off using the switch. If step 1516 is true,control stops the timer (Timer1) in step 1520. In step 1524, controlsets the automatic turn-off time equal to a value of the timer (Timer1).Control then ends.

Referring now to FIG. 29, another exemplary method 1550 for operatingthe controllable fixture, adapter, and/or bulb is shown. The method 1550sets the amount of time before a light is automatically turned off viauser interaction. The programmed time that the light will stay on may beinitially set at the time of manufacturing or installation of thecontrollable fixture, adapter, and/or bulb. The initial setting of theprogrammed time may also have been set according to one or more of theapproaches identified above or any other suitable approach.

Once a light switch has been turned on, the controllable fixture,adapter, or bulb will cause a light producing element to generate lightuntil the programmed time has expired. To reduce the programmed time,the light can be manually switched off before the programmed time hasexpired. The amount of time that the light was on will become the newprogrammed time.

To avoid inadvertently reducing the programmed time, the programmed timemay only be updated if the light switch is turned off, then on, then offin rapid succession. If the light switch is simply turned off, theprogrammed time will be unaffected. In various embodiments, a minimumprogrammed time may be defined. If the light is manually turned off inless than the minimum programmed time, the programmed time will beunchanged. This allows a user to turn the light on for a short period oftime without affecting the value of the programmed time.

In order to increase the programmed time, once the programmed time hasexpired and the light has turned off, the user can cycle the lightswitch off then on. The light will then stay on until the user manuallyturns it off. The programmed time will then be increased by the amountof time the light was on after this manual intervention.

In various embodiments, the new programmed time includes the timebetween when the light was programmatically turned off and the time whenthe user manually cycled the light switch. If the light has been off fora long period of time when the user cycles the light switch off and on,the user may not want to extend the programmed time, but instead start anew lighting cycle. For this reason, if the off-on cycling occurs aftera predetermined period of time, the programmed time is not changed, andthe light is simply turned on again. Once the programmed time haselapsed, the light will once again be turned off.

To prevent inadvertent lengthening of the programmed time, the lightswitch sequence used to lengthen the programmed time may be made morecomplex than off-on. For example, the programmed time may be lengthenedwhen the light switch is turned off-on-off-on within a predeterminedamount of time after the light is programmatically turned off. Forexample only, the predetermined amount of time may be 10 seconds.

Method 1550 begins in step 1552, where control determines whether thelight has been turned on. If the light has been turned on, controltransfers to step 1554; otherwise, control remains in step 1552. In step1554, control turns the light on and continues in step 1556, wherecontrol resets a first timer (timer1). Once timer1 reaches a programmedtime value, the light will automatically be turned off. Controlcontinues in step 1558, where control determines whether the light hasbeen turned off via a manual light switch. If so, control transfers tostep 1560; otherwise, control transfers to step 1562.

Alternatively, instead of transferring to step 1560, control maytransfer to step 1564. Step 1560 implements a more complex programmingprocedure that reduces the likelihood of inadvertent programming.Instead of updating the programmed time when the light switch is turnedoff, the programmed time is updated only when the switch is turned off,then on, then off within a predetermined period of T seconds. In step1560, control determines whether the switch being turned off is followedwithin T seconds by the switch being turned on then off again. If so,control continues in step 1564; otherwise, control returns to step 1552.

In step 1564, control determines whether Timer1 is greater than aminimum allowed programmed time. If so, control transfers to step 1566;otherwise, control returns to step 1552. Step 1564 provides anothersafeguard against inadvertent programming. The programmed time will notbe updated if the light has been on for less than the minimum allowedprogrammed time. This allows the light to be turned on and off quicklywithout affecting the programmed time.

For example, a controllable bulb, fixture, or adapter may have a minimumallowed programmed time of 10 minutes and be installed in a workroom.The programmed time may be programmed to two hours, which is appropriatefor typical work conducted in the workroom. If the user turns on thelight in the workroom for less than ten minutes (such as to retrieve atool), the programmed time will remain at the previously set two hours.

If this safeguard is not desired, step 1564 may be skipped, with controlproceeding directly to step 1566. In various implementations, theminimum allowed programmed time may be set to zero, effectively skippingstep 1564. In step 1566, the value of timer1 is stored as the newprogrammed time. Control then returns to step 1552.

In step 1562, control determines whether timer1 is greater than theprogrammed time. If so, control transfers to step 1568; otherwise,control returns to step 1558. In step 1568, the light is automaticallyturned off and control continues in step 1570. In step 1570, a secondtimer (timer2) is reset and control continues in step 1572.

If the user turns the light back on within a predetermined response timeafter the light is automatically turned off in step 1568, control mayupdate the programmed time based on the light being turned back on. Forexample, the predetermined response time may be set to one minute. Withthis setting, once the light has been turned off, the user has oneminute in which to turn the light back on and have this additionalon-time stored incorporated into the programmed time.

In step 1572, control determines whether timer2 is greater than thepredetermined response time. If so, the user may turn the light back on,but the programmed time will not be updated; control returns to step1552. Otherwise, control transfers to step 1574. In step 1574, controldetermines whether the light switch has been turned off and on. If so,control transfers to step 1576; otherwise, control returns to step 1572.In step 1576, control turns the light on and continues in step 1578.

The method 1550 may be modified to accommodate a more complexprogramming procedure that safeguards against inadvertent lengthening ofthe programmed time. For example, another comparison may be insertedbetween steps 1574 and 1576, where control determines whether the lightswitch has been turned off and on again. If so, control will continue tostep 1578; otherwise control will wait until the switch is turned off,at which point control will return to step 1552.

In step 1578, control determines whether the switch has been turned off.If so, control transfers to step 1580; otherwise, control remains instep 1578. In step 1580, control stores the value of timer1 as the newprogrammed time. Control then returns to step 1552.

In various implementations above, the bulbs and/or controllable bulbsmay be connected to the adapters, fixtures, controllable adapters,and/or controllable fixtures using threaded connections, one or morepins that are received in one or more sockets, and/or otherelectromechanical connections. After the controllable bulb, adapter, orfixture turns off the light, the light can be turned on again by turningoff the switch and turning it back on.

Turning now to FIGS. 30-37, additional approaches for controlling lightsand other devices are shown. In some of the preceding implementationsdescribed above with respect to FIGS. 2-29, the user toggled aconventional switch in a predetermined pattern to program thecontrollable bulb, adapter, or fixture. As can be appreciated, theamount of programming data that can be exchanged using this approach issomewhat limited.

In FIGS. 30-37, a conventional switch may be replaced by a mastercontroller that includes a user interface. The master controller mayprogram one or more remotely-located controllable devices. Supply powerto the controllable devices may be delivered to the master controllervia a supply line. The master controller sends control data and/orprogram data via the supply line to the controllable devices.

For example only, the user interface may include a keypad, one or morebuttons, and/or other input devices. When a user actuates the userinterface, the master controller sends control data and/or program datavia the supply line using a missing pulse format. As a result, one ormore of the controllable devices may be programmed based on one or moresets of control data and/or programs associated with the interfaceactuation.

The missing pulse format encodes data by removing portions of selectedperiods of a power signal and will be described further below. Thisallows for faster and more precise transfer of information than bymanually toggling a switch. As a result, more complex programmingoperations may be performed without relying on the manual dexterity ofthe user. For example, a device may be programmed to turn on to fullintensity, decrease to half intensity after two hours, and turn offafter four hours.

Furthermore, the master controller may communicate with multiplecontrollable devices and may coordinate control of the multiplecontrollable devices based on the user input. In addition, some of thecontrollable devices associated with the master controller may beprogrammed differently than others of the controllable devices when auser interface element, such as a single button, is actuated by theuser.

According to the present disclosure, a single input can be used tocontrol multiple controllable devices. For example only, this allows forscene lighting control including multiple controllable lights and/orcontrol of additional devices such as motorized window shades. A singlebutton may also be used to program multiple controllable devices to turnon their respective lights to various intensities for different periodsof time. The single button may also select predetermined programs withinthe controllable devices that effect this behavior.

As described below, a computer may be interfaced to the mastercontroller and/or the controllable devices to store or changeprogramming information and/or to direct the operation of the mastercontroller. The computer can access an interface via a web page. Usingthe interface, the user can create custom programs and download them tothe master controller.

Briefly, an exemplary system is introduced in FIGS. 30, 30A, and 30B. InFIGS. 31A-31D, exemplary missing pulse encoding that may be used tocommunicate data to the controllable device is described more fully. InFIGS. 32-35B, exemplary components of a master controller are depicted.In FIGS. 36A-37, exemplary components of a controllable device aredepicted. In FIG. 38, an exemplary installation programmer that can beused to store initial programming data into controllable devices isdepicted.

Returning to FIG. 30, a functional block diagram of an exemplaryprogrammable load control system is presented. A master controller1600-1, such as a wall mounted button assembly, receives power from theservice panel 202. The master controller 1600-1 generates and transmitsprogramming data to one or more controllable devices, such ascontrollable devices 1602-1 and 1602-2. The master controller 1600-1 mayencode the programming data using missing pulses, as will be describedbelow.

Based on the programming data, the controllable device 1602-1 controls aload 1604. The load 1604 may be integrated with the controllable device1602-1, as shown in FIG. 30, or may be separate. For example only, thecontrollable device 1602-1 may include a light fixture, a light bulbsocket adapter, or a light bulb, while the load 1604 may include a lightbulb or a light producing element.

By using missing pulses, the master controller 1600-1 can transmit datafaster than a human being can when toggling a switch. This allows formore complex control operations than otherwise may be available. Forexample only, the missing pulse approach allows transmission of morespecific control data, such as instructions to turn the load 1604 on atfull intensity, decrease the intensity after x minutes, further decreasethe intensity after y minutes, and finally turn off the load 1604 afterz minutes.

The master controller 1600-1 includes a missing pulse transmitter 1612,which receives power from the service panel 202. The missing pulsetransmitter 1612 provides power to other components of the mastercontroller 1600-1. The missing pulse transmitter 1612 transmits a powersignal to the controllable device 1602-1 and encodes control data forthe controllable device 1602-1 by removing pulses from the power signal.

The missing pulse transmitter 1612 is controlled by a control module1614. The control module 1614 may communicate with optional components,such as a user interface 1610, a wireless interface 1616, a computerinterface 1617, a parameter control module 1618, and/or a power lineinterface 1620. The user interface 1610 allows a user to interact withthe master controller 1600-1, such as by pushing buttons, and isdescribed in further detail below.

Alternately or additionally, the master controller 1600-1 may receiveuser input via the wireless interface 1616 and/or the power lineinterface 1620. The wireless interface 1616 may communicate with othermaster controllers, such as the master controller 1600-2, with networkaccess points, and/or with personal computers. The wireless interface1616 may also communicate with mobile devices, such as mobile devices1608-1 and 1608-2. The wireless interface may use a wireless local areanetwork (WLAN) standard such as IEEE 802.11, 802.11a, 802.11b, 802.11g,802.11h, 802.11n, 802.16, or 802.20, and may support wireless personalarea network (WPAN) standards such as IEEE 802.15.1.

The power line interface 1620 may communicate with other mastercontrollers, such as the master controller 1600-2, and with power linecarrier control modules, such as power line carrier control modules1606-1 and 1606-2. The power line interface 1620 communicates via supplylines that are in communication with the service panel 202. The powerline carrier control module 1606-2, the master controller 1600-2, andanother controllable device 1602-3 may be located on another branchcircuit of the service panel 202.

The parameter control module 1618 stores data such as loadcharacteristics, user preferences, and presets for use by the controlmodule 1614. This data may include addresses of controllable deviceswhen multiple controllable devices will be controlled by the same mastercontroller. This data may also specify which controllable devices arepart of a scene, and to what intensity they should be set for the scene.

The parameter control module 1618 may be configured upon installation ofthe master controller 1600-1, may be updated during use of the mastercontroller 1600-1, and/or may be hard-coded during manufacturing. Theparameter control module 1618 is described in more detail with respectto FIG. 33. The parameter control module 1618 may also be programmed bythe computer interface 1617.

The computer interface 1617 may include a serial interface, such asRS-232 or universal serial bus (USB), and/or a network interface, suchas IEEE 802.3. By using the computer interface 1617, a user or installermay update the contents of the parameter control module 1618. Forexample, the user may access a website to create a custom program.

Additionally, the computer interface 1617 may also be used to directlycontrol the control module 1614. In this way, a user can controlcontrollable devices and/or select scenes from their computer. If thecomputer is connected to the Internet, commands may be sent to thecomputer remotely (such as from the user's work) to control the controlmodule 1614.

The master controller 1600-1 may include a receiver/current detector1622, which communicates with the control module 1614. Thereceiver/current detector 1622 may sense current consumed by downstreamdevices, such as the controllable devices 1602-1 and 1602-2. Byinterrupting the consumption of current during periods when there are nomissing pulses being sent, the controllable device 1602-1 cancommunicate data back to the master controller 1600-1. Thereceiver/current detector 1622 decodes these missing current pulses asdata for the master controller 1600-1.

The power line carrier control module 1606-1 includes a power lineinterface 1624, which communicates with other devices via signalssuperimposed on power signals originating from the service panel 202.The power line carrier control module 1606-1 may include a userinterface 1626 and/or a wireless interface 1628, which communicate withthe power line interface 1624.

The power line interface 1624 communicates user input data to the mastercontroller 1600-1 and/or to the master controller 1600-2. The user inputdata may be received from the user interface 1626 and/or the wirelessinterface 1628. The wireless interface 1628 receives user input datafrom other input devices, such as the mobile devices 1608-1 and 1608-2.

The mobile device 1608-1 may comprise a smartphone, a laptop, a personaldigital assistant, a remote control, etc. The mobile device 1608-1includes a wireless interface 1630 and a user interface 1632. Thewireless interface 1630 wirelessly transmits data received from the uservia the user interface 1632. The wireless interface 1630 may alsofunction as a repeater for wireless signals from devices that may be outof range of the master controller 1600-1, such as the mobile device1608-2.

The controllable device 1602-1 includes a switch 1640, a device controlmodule 1642, and a missing pulse receiver 1644. The switch 1640 receivesa power signal from the missing pulse transmitter 1612 of the mastercontroller 1600-1. The switch 1640 is controlled by the device controlmodule 1642. The device control module 1642 is configured by the missingpulse receiver 1644.

The device control module 1642 may also communicate with a parametercontrol module 1646, which provides parameters that may be configuredduring installation. In various implementations, the parameter controlmodule 1646 may also be updated by the missing pulse receiver 1644during normal operation. The parameter control module 1646 may includedata such as that stored in the parameter control module 1618 of themaster controller 1600-1. In addition, the parameter control module 1646may be programmed and/or updated via a computer interface 1648 similarto the computer interface 1617.

Referring now to FIGS. 30A and 30B, various ways of connecting themaster controller to the controllable devices is shown. In FIGS. 30A and30B, a simplified view of one of the master controllers 1600 is shown.In FIG. 30A, the missing pulse transmitter 1612 communicates directlywith each of the controllable devices 1602-A1, 1602-A2, . . . , and1602-AX.

In FIG. 30B, the missing pulse transmitter 1612 communicates with one ormore nodes 1647. Each of the controllable devices 1602-B1, 1602-B2, . .. , and 1602-BX communicates either directly with the node 1647 orindirectly with the node 1647 (via other nodes—not shown). As can beappreciated, a hybrid master controller relating to FIGS. 30A and 30Bcan be used with both direct connections and connections through one ormore nodes. The missing pulse transmitter 1612 generates addressing datain addition to other control data sent to the controllable devices 1602.

The addressing data selects the controllable device associated with thecontrol data being sent. Advantages of the configuration in FIG. 30Binclude simplified connections to the master controller 1600. The mastercontroller 1600 may be arranged in a junction box. It may be difficultto separately connect all of the power conductors for each of thecontrollable devices 1602 to the master controller 1600 in the samejunction box. Furthermore, the addressing approach allows multiplecontrollable devices to be connected and individually controlled.

Referring now to FIG. 31A, a graphical depiction of missing pulsetransmission is presented. Power is typically carried by a sinusoidalvoltage waveform 1700 characterized by a frequency. For example, thefrequency may be approximately 50 Hz or 60 Hz. Each period of thevoltage waveform 1700 is composed of a positive half-sine wave and anegative half-sine wave. If portions of these half-sine waves, alsocalled pulses, are truncated, downstream devices can interpret thesemissing pulses as data.

For example a missing pulse is depicted at 1702. Instead of following adashed sinusoid 1703, the voltage waveform 1700 remains flat during themissing pulse 1702. The missing pulse 1702 is shown only for exemplarypurposes as a missing half-period staffing and ending at zero-crossings.Missing pulses may occur for any portion of a period of the voltagewaveform 1700 and do not necessarily start or stop at a zero-crossing.However, sending missing pulses between the zero-crossing may reducestress on the switches used to encode the missing pulses.

The missing pulse 1702 is followed by two full pulses and then a secondmissing pulse 1704. The second missing pulse 1704 is followed by twofull pulses and then a third missing pulse 1706. This sequence of fulland missing pulses can be interpreted as data. The voltage waveform 1700may be centered about zero volts. Therefore, during times of missingpulses, the voltage may be held at zero volts. A filter may be appliedto round off corners (such as those indicated at 1710-1 and 1710-2) ofthe missing pulses to minimize high frequency noise on the voltagewaveform 1700.

Removing pulses decreases power available to downstream devices. Forexample only, if 120 pulses per second are present in the voltagewaveform 1700 and six pulses are removed every second, only 6/120 or 5%of average power is lost. A data rate of only a few symbols per secondis still greater than a human being could reliably achieve by toggling awall switch and only slightly reduces available power.

This data rate can be efficiently used by prioritizing data andtransmitting higher priority data to the controllable device 1602-1before transmitting lower priority data. For example, high priority datamay include the intensity at which to turn on the load. Information suchas the timing of future dimming or turn-off events may have a lowerpriority. For example, if instructing the controllable device 1602-1 toturn full on for 30 minutes and then reduce intensity by 25% at a latertime such as 30 minutes later, only the full on command will betransmitted immediately. There is a period of 30 minutes in which totransmit the dimming percentage and timing information.

The data that is transferred may optionally include data integritymetrics, such as parity bits and/or CRC (cyclic redundancy check)values. FIGS. 31B-31D depict further exemplary implementations ofmissing pulses. FIG. 31B depicts a missing pulse 1712 where the top of apositive half-sine wave is limited to a certain voltage that is greaterthan zero. Similarly, negative half-sine waves can be limited to acertain voltage that is less than zero to create missing pulses.

FIG. 31C depicts a missing pulse 1714 where less than half of a positivehalf-sine wave is removed. For the portion of the half-sine wave that isremoved, the voltage may return to zero as shown in FIG. 31C, or to somenon-zero voltage. FIG. 31D depicts a missing pulse 1716 where portionsof both the positive and negative half-sine waves are removed. Whilehalf of each half-sine wave is shown removed in FIG. 31D, more or lessthan half can be removed from either half-sine wave.

A receiver may generate a reference sine wave to determine whether apulse is missing. The receiver may determine that a pulse is missingwhen the received power signal differs from the reference sine wave bymore than a certain percentage or absolute amount for more than apredetermined period of time. To avoid having to generate a referencesine wave, the receiver may establish one or more reference points todetermine whether a pulse is missing.

For example, a reference point 1718-1 may be defined for the positivehalf-sine wave of FIG. 31A. The reference point 1718-1 includesamplitude information and may include time information. The timeinformation may specify when to measure amplitude within a period of thevoltage waveform 1700. For instance, the reference point 1718-1 mayspecify that the measurement is to be taken at the 25% point of theperiod, where each period begins at the positive-going zero crossing,such as point 1710-1.

The 25% point of such a period falls in the middle of the positivehalf-sine wave. A full pulse occurs when the incoming power signalexceeds the voltage of the reference point 1718-1 at the 25% point. Whenthe incoming power signal is less than the voltage of the referencepoint 1718-1 at the 25% point, as it is for the missing pulse 1702, amissing pulse is detected.

The receiver may measure whether the voltage waveform 1700 exceeds thevoltage of the reference point 1718-1 at any time within the period. Inthis case, the reference point 1718-1 does not need to include timeinformation. For full pulses, the voltage waveform 1700 will exceed thereference point 1718-1 around the 25% point (such as between 20% and30%). For the positive missing pulse 1702 of FIG. 31A, the voltagewaveform 1700 will not exceed the reference point 1718-1 during theentire missing pulse period. A similar reference point can be definedfor negative missing pulses, such as for the second missing pulse 1704.

For the missing pulse 1712 of FIG. 31B, a reference point 1718-2 may beconfigured similarly to the reference point 1718-1. Because there isless difference between the voltage of a full pulse and the voltage of amissing pulse in FIG. 31B, the reference point 1718-2 should be definedmore accurately. Detection of such missing pulses may be more prone toerrors from noise.

Reference points 1718-3 and 1718-4 can be defined for the missing pulses1714 and 1716 of FIGS. 31C and 31D, respectively. Reference points1718-3 and 1718-4 include timing information because portions of themissing pulses exceed the voltages of the reference points 1718-3 and1718-4. The reference points 1718-3 and 1718-4 are therefore evaluatedin specific regions of the power signal.

The reference point 1718-3 may indicate that its voltage should becompared to a measurement taken in the second quarter of the period,where periods are defined to start at the positive-going zero crossing1710-1. The reference point 1718-4 may indicate that its voltage shouldbe compared to a measurement taken in the fourth quarter of the period.

Referring now to FIG. 32, a graphical depiction of an exemplary userinterface 1720 is presented. The user interface 1720 may include one ormore buttons, such as buttons 1722-1, 1722-2, 1722-3, and 1722-4,collectively buttons 1722. By pressing one of the buttons 1722, the usercan select a predetermined load characteristic. The buttons 1722 and/orcorresponding areas of the user interface 1720 may include indiciadescribing the function associated with each button 1722.

For example only, button 1722-1 may toggle between full on and off.Button 1722-2 may select full on for 30 minutes followed by half on for15 minutes followed by off. Button 1722-3 may select quarter on for 3hours followed by off. Button 1722-4 may select full on for 2 hoursfollowed by quarter on. The predetermined characteristics of the buttons1722 may be changed by the user via the user interface 1720, or may bemodified using parameter control modules as described in more detailbelow. The user interface 1720 may also include such interface elementsas a keypad, an LCD display, knobs, switches, and/or levers.

Referring now to FIGS. 33A-33C, functional block diagrams of exemplaryparameter control modules are presented. The parameter control modulesallow a user to change functions associated with the buttons. In FIG.33A, a parameter control module 1750 includes dip switches 1752. The dipswitches 1752 may select lengths of time and/or intensities at which tooperate the load. For example, the dip switches 1752 may select one ormore of M intensities and one or more of N time periods.

In FIG. 33B, a parameter control module 1760 includes one or morepotentiometers 1762. The potentiometers 1762 provide for fine adjustmentof duration and intensity of load operation. For example, one or more ofthe potentiometers 1762 may determine intensity ranging from 0% to 100%,while one or more of the potentiometers 1762 may determine time periodsranging from 0 minutes to a predetermined upper limit.

In FIG. 33C, a parameter control module 1770 includes nonvolatilestorage 1772. Nonvolatile storage 1772 may be programmed at time ofinstallation or may be updated via a user interface or via computercontrol. The parameter control modules 1750 may be located in the mastercontroller 1600-1, the controllable device 1602-1, or remotely.

The parameter control modules 1750 may contain load operationcharacteristic presets that are selected by a user. Nonvolatile storage1772 may comprise removable storage, such as flash memory cards. A usercan remove nonvolatile storage 1772 from the parameter control module1770 and update its contents using widely-available memory card computerinterfaces.

FIGS. 34A and 35A depict possible wiring configurations. In FIG. 34A,only one supply line is available to the master controller. In FIG. 35A,two supply lines are available to the master controller. FIGS. 34B and35B depict exemplary implementations of missing pulse transmitterscorresponding to these two wiring configurations.

Referring now to FIG. 34A, the missing pulse transmitter 1802 receivesthe first supply line. The missing pulse transmitter 1802 connects, withthe exception of missing pulses, the first supply line to thecontrollable device 1602-1. The controllable device 1602-1 receives thesecond supply line. In FIG. 34B, the missing pulse transmitter 1802includes a switch 1804, a control module 1806, and a charge storagemodule 1808. The switch 1804 receives the first supply line andselectively outputs power to the controllable device 1602-1.

The switch 1804 may include a triac or any other suitable device. Thecharge storage module 1808 stores charge from the first supply line. Thecharge storage module 1808 provides power to the control module 1806 andalso outside of the missing pulse transmitter 1802 to other componentsof the master controller 1600-1. The charge storage module 1808 mayreceive charge when the switch 1804 opens and current from the firstsupply line stops flowing through the switch 1804.

In order to maintain a certain charge level in the charge storage module1808, the switch 1804 may intermittently suspend current flow to forcecharge into the charge storage module 1808. The switch 1804 may remove apulse periodically, such as once per second, for this purpose. Thisperiodic missing pulse may also serve as a synchronization pulse fordownstream components. The control module 1806 receives the first supplyline to synchronize missing pulses with the incoming power signal.

Referring now to FIG. 35A, a missing pulse transmitter 1820 receivespower from the first and second supply lines. The missing pulsetransmitter 1820 selectively communicates power to the controllabledevice 1602-1 via first and second conductors. The missing pulsetransmitter 1820 may transmit missing pulses to the controllable device1602-1 via either or both conductors.

In FIG. 35B, the missing pulse transmitter 1820 includes a switch 1822and a control module 1824. The switch 1822 receives one of the first andsecond supply lines. The switch 1822 selectively allows power from thesupply line through to the controllable device 1602-1. The controlmodule 1824 receives power from the first and second supply lines andcontrols operation of the switch 1822. Power is communicated to othercomponents of the master controller 1600-1 via connections to the firstand second supply lines within the missing pulse transmitter 1820.

Referring now to FIGS. 36A and 36B, functional block diagrams ofexemplary controllable devices are presented. In FIG. 36A, acontrollable device 1900 includes the missing pulse receiver 1644, thedevice control module 1642, the load 1604, and a dimmer module 1902. Forpurposes of example only, two connections are shown between the missingpulse receiver and the device control module 1642.

The two connections may carry power and control data, respectively. Thedevice control module 1642 controls operation of the dimmer module 1902.The dimmer module 1902 reduces the average power traveling to the load1604. While not shown in FIG. 36A, the controllable device 1900 mayinclude the parameter control module 1646 and/or the computer interface1648 as shown in FIG. 30.

In FIG. 36B, a controllable device 1920 includes a missing pulsetransceiver 1922, the device control module 1642, an interruptibledimmer module 1924, and the load 1604. The interruptible dimmer module1924 can turn off for individual pulses of the incoming voltagewaveform, such as the voltage waveform 1700 of FIG. 31. Thisfunctionality is controlled by the missing pulse transceiver 1922.

The missing pulse transceiver 1922 can communicate data to the mastercontroller 1600-1 by instructing the interruptible dimmer module 1924 toturn at least partially off for specified pulses of the voltage waveform1700. This action can be observed by the receiver/current detector 1622of the master controller 1600-1 as a decrease in current for thosepulses that are interrupted by the interruptible dimmer module 1924. Inthis way, bidirectional communication is possible between thecontrollable device 1920 and the master controller 1600-1.

Referring now to FIG. 37, a functional block diagram of an exemplarydevice control module 1642 is presented. The device control module 1642includes a power supply 1950 that provides power to the components ofthe device control module 1642. The power supply 1950 may include aregulated DC power supply and may be implemented within the missingpulse receiver 1644 or the missing pulse transceiver 1922.

The device control module 1642 also receives control data from themissing pulse receiver 1644 or the missing pulse transceiver 1922. Thiscontrol data is communicated to a timer value storage module 1952 and alevel value storage module 1954. The timer value storage module 1952stores values to be used by a timer 1956.

In various implementations, the timer 1956 begins running when the load1604 is first turned on. When the timer 1956 reaches the first timespecified by the timer value storage module 1952, the timer communicatesan increment signal to the level value storage module 1954. Theincrement signal indicates that the level value storage module 1954should select the next level value.

These level values are communicated from the level value storage module1954 to a level control module 1958. The level control module 1958 thenoperates the switch 1640, the dimmer module 1902, or the interruptibledimmer module 1924. The level control module 1958 may select between onand off or may select various intensity levels between on and off. Thetimer value storage module 1952 and the level value storage module 1954may include hard-coded or pre-programmed presets that are selected bythe incoming control signal. They may also receive time and level valuedata via the incoming control signal.

The amount of storage present in the timer value storage module 1952 andthe level value storage module 1954 determines how complex the loadcontrol characteristic can be. In various implementations, the levelvalue storage module 1954 contains a storage location for every storagelocation in the timer value storage module 1952. In this way, eachperiod of time tracked by the timer 1956 corresponds to a level in thelevel value storage module 1954.

Referring now to FIG. 38, a functional block diagram of an exemplaryinstallation programmer 2002 is presented. The installation programmer2002 can be used to program values into the controllable device 1602prior to the controllable device 1602 being installed. The installationprogrammer 2002 can be used to program controllable devices that receivedata via missing pulses without having to install light switches thatcan transmit missing pulses. The installation programmer 2002 may alsobe used to program controllable devices that can be programmed bytoggling a light switch.

For example, if the controllable device 1602 includes a light bulb, theinstallation programmer 2002 can store parameters into the light bulbbefore the light bulb is screwed into a socket. The parametersprogrammed into the controllable device 1602 may include times andintensities. For example, the controllable device 1602 may be programmedto turn on at 100% intensity for one hour, transition to 50% intensityfor another hour, and then turn off. This sequence may be initiated,once the controllable device 1602 is installed, by supplying power via astandard light switch. Once the controllable device 1602 has turned offafter two hours, the light switch may be toggled to restart the lightingsequence.

In other examples, a set of parameters for a controllable device to beinstalled in a kitchen may include turning on at 100% intensity for twohours followed by a lesser intensity, such as 40%, for one hour. Inanother example, a set of parameters for installation in a bathroom mayinclude turning on at 100% intensity for 15 minutes followed by a lesserintensity, such as 40%, for 15 minutes.

The installation programmer 2002 may program multiple parameter setsinto the controllable device 1602. These parameter sets may be selectedonce the controllable device 1602 is installed by toggling an associatedlight switch in a predetermined pattern. For example, supplying power tothe controllable device 1602 by turning on a light switch may select afirst set of parameters. Turning the light switch on, off, and thenquickly back on may select a second set of parameters. Turning the lightswitch on, off, on, off, and on in rapid succession may select a thirdset of parameters. Other toggling schemes are described in more detailabove, and may be used to select parameter sets.

In addition to programming the controllable device 1602, theinstallation programmer 2002 may be able to read the current programmingstate of the controllable device 1602. This may then be displayed to theuser or stored within the installation programmer 2002. If stored, theprogramming state can be used to program other controllable devices. Forexample, if the controllable device 1602 fails, a new controllabledevice can be purchased and programmed to the same programming state.

The installation programmer 2002 includes a missing pulse transmitter2004. The missing pulse transmitter 2004 receives power from one or moresupply lines and supplies power to the controllable device 1602. Asdescribed above, the missing pulse transmitter 2004 can transmit data tothe controllable device 1602 by temporarily interrupting or reducing theflow of power to the controllable device 1602. A power supply 2006receives power from the supply lines and provides power to components ofthe installation programmer 2002.

The missing pulse transmitter 2004 may be capable of interrupting powerto the controllable device 1602 for a time longer than one period of thepower supply signal. In this way, the missing pulse transmitter 2004 canbe used to produce on and off sequences similar to those produced by auser toggling a light switch. This allows the installation programmer2002 to program controllable devices that include programming modulessuch as the programming module 754 of FIG. 13, the programming module804 of FIG. 14, and the programming module 904 of FIG. 16.

The installation programmer 2002 includes a control module 2010. Thecontrol module 2010 sends data to the missing pulse transmitter 2004,which then encodes the data on the power signal sent to the controllabledevice 1602. The control module 2010 determines data for transmission tothe controllable device 1602 based upon user input. User input may bereceived from the user input module 2014.

For example only, the user input module 2014 may include a singlebutton. The button may be pressed once the controllable device 1602 isconnected to the installation programmer 2002. In various otherimplementations, the user input module 2014 may include a plurality ofbuttons, each corresponding to a set of parameters to be stored into thecontrollable device 1602. The user input module 2014 may be used toselect a set of parameters from nonvolatile memory 2022 to be programmedinto the controllable device 1602.

The user input module 2014 may also allow a user to specify values, suchas intensities and times, for programming into the controllable device1602. Values entered by the user or stored in nonvolatile memory 2022may be displayed on a display 2018. In various implementations, acomputer interface 2026 may communicate with a computer, a handhelddevice, etc. The control module 2010 may receive parameters for storingto the controllable device 1602 via the computer interface 2026.

Values received from the computer interface 2026 and user input module2014 may be stored for future use in nonvolatile memory 2022. Theinstallation programmer 2002 may also include a receiver/currentdetector 2030. The receiver/current detector 2030 receives the powersignal from the missing pulse transmitter 2004 to the controllabledevice 1602.

The controllable device 1602 may communicate information to theinstallation programmer 2002 by interrupting the consumption of power ofthe controllable device 1602. This power consumption interruption isdetected by the receiver/current detector 2030. The controllable device1602 may, for example, provide the parameter set or sets currentlystored to the installation programmer 2002. The control module 2010 maystore these parameter sets into nonvolatile memory 2022 for future use.

Those skilled in the art can now appreciate from the foregoingdescription that the broad teachings of the disclosure can beimplemented in a variety of forms. Therefore, while this disclosureincludes particular examples, the true scope of the disclosure shouldnot be so limited since other modifications will become apparent to theskilled practitioner upon a study of the drawings, the specification,and the following claims.

What is claimed is:
 1. A controllable light fixture comprising: areceiver module powered by a power signal, wherein the receiver modulecomprises a timing module configured to begin counting in response tothe power signal being received, and wherein the receiver module isconfigured to determine control parameters in response to on/offmodulation of the power signal, wherein the control parameters include apredetermined value; set the predetermined value based on a durationthat the power signal is on after a programming mode is initiated; andselectively generate a control signal, based on the control parameters,in response to the timing module reaching the predetermined value; anelectronic switch configured to (i) output an output power signal basedon the power signal and (ii) reduce the output power signal in responseto the control signal; and an electrical connector configured to (i)mechanically and electrically connect to a light bulb and (ii) providethe output power signal to the light bulb.
 2. The controllable lightfixture of claim 1, wherein the on/off modulation comprises a count overa predetermined period of time of one of power signal presence and powersignal absence.
 3. The controllable light fixture of claim 1, whereinthe on/off modulation comprises binary data collected at periodicsampling intervals, wherein a first binary state corresponds to powersignal presence and a second binary state corresponds to power signalabsence.
 4. The controllable light fixture of claim 1, wherein theon/off modulation comprises binary data determined by periods of one ofpower signal presence and power signal absence, wherein a first binarystate corresponds to periods shorter than a predetermined length and asecond binary state corresponds to periods longer than the predeterminedlength.
 5. The controllable light fixture of claim 1, wherein thereceiver module is configured to determine the control parameters afterthe on/off modulation indicates initiation of the programming mode. 6.The controllable light fixture of claim 5, wherein a predeterminedon/off sequence occurring during a predetermined period of time in theon/off modulation indicates initiation of the programming mode.
 7. Thecontrollable light fixture of claim 1, wherein the electronic switch isconfigured to reduce the output power signal to approximately zero inresponse to receiving the control signal.
 8. The controllable lightfixture of claim 1, wherein the electronic switch is configured toreduce the output power signal to a dimmed value in response toreceiving the control signal.
 9. The controllable light fixture of claim1, wherein the receiver module comprises a power line carrier receivermodule associated with a first address, wherein the power line carrierreceiver module is configured to (i) receive data via the power signaland (ii) accept commands addressed to one of the first address and aglobal address, wherein the control parameters include the firstaddress, and wherein the receiver module is configured to generate thecontrol signal based on the data.
 10. The controllable light fixture ofclaim 9, wherein the power line carrier receiver module is configured toperform an operation based on the on/off modulation.
 11. Thecontrollable light fixture of claim 10, wherein the operation is atleast one of a reset address operation, an update address operation, abroadcast connection operation, and a transmit address operation. 12.The controllable light fixture of claim 1, wherein the receiver moduleis configured to decrease the predetermined value when the power signalis turned off before the timing module reaches the predetermined value.13. The controllable light fixture of claim 12, wherein the receivermodule is configured to increase the predetermined value when the powersignal is turned off then on within a predetermined period after thetiming module reaches the predetermined value.
 14. The controllablelight fixture of claim 1, wherein the receiver module is configured todecrease the predetermined value when the power signal is turned off,on, and off within a predetermined period, and before the timing modulereaches the predetermined value.
 15. The controllable light fixture ofclaim 14, wherein the receiver module is configured to increase thepredetermined value when the power signal is turned off, on, off, and onwithin a second predetermined period after the timing module reaches thepredetermined value.
 16. The controllable light fixture of claim 1,wherein the electrical connector comprises conducting female threads anda conducting contact.
 17. A method of operating a controllable lightfixture that provides a mechanical and electrical connection to a lightbulb, the method comprising: receiving a power signal; outputting anoutput power signal, based on the power signal, to the light bulb;tracking a length of a time period since the power signal has been on;determining control parameters in response to on/off modulation of thepower signal, wherein the control parameters include a predeterminedvalue; setting the predetermined value based on a duration that thepower signal is on after a programming mode is initiated; selectivelygenerating a control signal, based on the control parameters, inresponse to the length reaching the predetermined value; and reducingthe output power signal in response to the control signal.
 18. Themethod of claim 17, wherein the on/off modulation comprises a count overa predetermined period of time of one of power signal presence and powersignal absence.
 19. The method of claim 17, wherein the on/offmodulation comprises binary data collected at periodic samplingintervals, wherein a first binary state corresponds to power signalpresence and a second binary state corresponds to power signal absence.20. The method of claim 17, wherein the on/off modulation comprisesbinary data determined by periods of one of power signal presence andpower signal absence, wherein a first binary state corresponds toperiods shorter than a predetermined length and a second binary statecorresponds to periods longer than the predetermined length.
 21. Themethod of claim 17, further comprising determining the controlparameters after the on/off modulation indicates initiation of theprogramming mode.
 22. The method of claim 21, wherein a predeterminedon/off sequence occurring during a predetermined period of time in theon/off modulation indicates initiation of the programming mode.
 23. Themethod of claim 17, further comprising reducing the output power signalto approximately zero in response to receiving the control signal. 24.The method of claim 17, further comprising reducing the output powersignal to a dimmed value in response to receiving the control signal.25. The method of claim 17, further comprising: receiving power linecarrier data via the power signal; accepting commands addressed to oneof (i) a first address associated with the controllable light fixtureand (ii) a global address, wherein the control parameters include thefirst address; and generating the control signal based on the data. 26.The method of claim 25, further comprising performing a power linecarrier operation based on the on/off modulation.
 27. The method ofclaim 26, wherein the power line carrier operation is at least one of areset address operation, an update address operation, a broadcastconnection operation, and a transmit address operation.
 28. The methodof claim 17, further comprising decreasing the predetermined value whenthe power signal is turned off before the length reaches thepredetermined value.
 29. The method of claim 28, further comprisingincreasing the predetermined value when the power signal is turned offthen on within a predetermined period after the length reaches thepredetermined value.
 30. The method of claim 17, further comprisingdecreasing the predetermined value when the power signal is turned off,on, and off within a predetermined period, and before the length reachesthe predetermined value.
 31. The method of claim 30, further comprisingincreasing the predetermined value when the power signal is turned off,on, off, and on within a second predetermined period after the lengthreaches the predetermined value.